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Thommo: Matip boosts Lovren
- Updated: December 19, 2016
Joel Matip’s presence in the Liverpool defence has boosted the performances of Dejan Lovren, according to Sky Sports pundit Phil Thompson.
Liverpool have not lost this season when Matip has featured, winning 10 of the 14 matches when the Cameroonian has started at centre-back.
The 25-year-old faces a late fitness test ahead of Mersey Monday, live on Sky Sports 1 HD, in what would be his first experience of the Liverpool-Everton derby after arriving from Schalke in the summer.
Thompson praised the influence of Matip, highlighting the impact his ability has on Lovren and the rest of the Liverpool defence.
“Matip has had a fantastic first season. I’ve been very impressed,” Thompson said. “I thought it would have taken him a little bit of time to settle, but he has been absolutely terrific.
“People have often complained that the back four of Liverpool is where it has been weak, but their defence has been quite excellent.
“[Nathaniel] Clyne has been good, Lovren has had a really good season, [James] Milner is …
