Joel Matip on why he’s ready to “start new” at Liverpool

Joel Matip says he’s focused solely on the season ahead despite enjoying a successful campaign in 2018/19 with Liverpool.

The 27-year-old partnered Virgil van Dijk for much of the second half of last season, earning many plaudits along the way for his assured performances in the heart of defence.

But the defender knows he has to start again from scratch in the battle to earn a starting place in Jurgen Klopp’s side ahead of the new campaign.

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“It was nice to play and have the success, but a new season begins,” he told LiverpoolFC.com.

“You start new and last season doesn’t matter. You only have to take the things, learn the things from last year, but we all start from new.

“We have a lot of good players. I try to play as much as possible, but we will see.

“Because of this we have a high-quality squad like this. Everyone needs to step in if someone is missing, injured or not in the best shape. We are looking good and I am looking forward to the season.”

On Liverpool’s pre-season preparations, he added: “You have to get used to it, it’s intense, but it is good for the pre-season.

“We need these sessions to get better and strong. It’s about fitness, getting the rhythm back, playing football and getting used to the intensity.

“You always try to lead from the front, but there are a lot of good young players trying their best [here] – we all help each other. That’s how it works in the team.”

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Source: anfieldhq.com