Liverpool have confirmed on their official website that Joel Matip has been named the PFA Premier League Player of the month for September. The Cameroonian defensive ace has managed to beat the likes of Arsenal’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Bournemouth’s Callum Wilson, Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne and Riyad Mahrez to win the prestigious award (via liverpoolfc.com).
Matip’s Incredible Form For The Merseysiders This Season
Jurgen Klopp would hope that Matip can continue with his excellent form following his return from his latest injury setback. He has formed a formidable partnership alongside Virgil Van Dijk at the heart of the Reds backline. The Merseyside club currently boasts the best defensive record in the Premier League, having conceded only six goals so far this season.
The Cameroonian centre-back has featured in nine matches for the European champions this term, scoring two goals in the process. More importantly, Matip has made an average of 1.9 tackles, 1.6 interceptions and 5.0 clearances per game in the English top-flight (stats via whoscored). The 28-year-old has also represented Cameroon in 27 international matches and has netted one goal for his country thus far.
The Kopites will now hope that their star performer can make a speedy return after he missed his side’s last two victories against RB Salzburg and Leicester City respectively.
What Does The Former Bundesliga Talent Add To Klopp’s Side?
Matip is a commanding presence inside his own half as he can win a lot of 50-50 aerial duels. He is a decent distributor of the ball and can make some penetrative runs in the opposition box. The Cameroonian talent can also contribute by scoring the odd goal from set-pieces. He is a very reliable defender who can make some vital clearances for his side.
Matip is also not afraid to put his body on the line to help his side keep things tight at the back. He has found a level of consistency with his performances for the Merseyside giants this season. Jurgen Klopp will keep his fingers crossed that Matip can make a successful come back from his injury after the international break.
With matches coming thick and fast across all competitions, the Reds centre-half will play an integral role for Klopp’s first-team in determining whether they can compete for multiple trophies in this campaign.
