Is it time for Klopp to drop Matip?

Tom Grant
  • 7 Nov 2021 20:50 GMT
  • 3 min read
Klopp discusses Salah ‘greed’ amid his special Liverpool season
© ProShots

Liverpool lost to West Ham on Sunday and with it suffered their first defeat of the season.

Not only was it their first defeat of the season, but their first loss in 25 games, missing the chance of beating the club's all-time record set by Bob Paisley's team in 1982.

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The season had started so well for Liverpool, winning six of their first seven games.

But now fans are beginning to question the team's title credentials as they continue to concede goals.

They shipped three to Brentford in a 3-3 draw in September and again conceded two when leading 2-0 against Brighton recently.

Alison saw another three strikes go past him against the Hammers in a match where the Brazilian goalkeeper was far from his best.

Matip woes

But it is in defence that fans have their concerns with Joel Matip being involved in the loss of at least two of the goals.

Matip was drawn to the onrushing Jared Bowen for West Ham's second, leaving Pablo Fornals free to put West Ham 2-1 in front.

And then Michail Antonio got the wrong side of the Cameroon international that forced Van Dijk to bail him out and concede the corner.

Zouma headed in the third from the resulting set-piece.

Matip sat out the draw with Brighton but did partner Virgil Van Dyke against Brentford.

Konate or Gomez?

However, fans are now questioning why Ibrahima Konate didn't keep his place from the Brighton game, seeing him as a better fit with his strength when up against the likes of Antonio.

But Konate was accused of going MIA for the equalising goal against Brighton.

Ibrahima Konate
© ProShots

Another alternative for Klopp is Joe Gomez. The 24-year-old England player has seldom been seen this season, only making seven appearances this season. That suggests Klopp doesn't see Gomez as the man to partner Van Dijk in the long term.

Will Klopp turn to the transfer window?

That leaves the January transfer window as the remaining option for Klopp and a rush to get someone alongside the Dutchman.

Don't be surprised if this is what Klopp does. After recent displays from his defence, he may be losing faith and may look abroad for the solution to his current predicament.

Read more about: Liverpool

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