Former Liverpool defender Daniel Agger has tipped Joel Matip to build on a promising first season in the Premier League and become a real lynchpin in the heart of the Reds back four.

Matip came to the club on a free transfer from Schalke and was one of boss Jurgen Klopp’s first signings at Anfield.

He slotted straight into the unit and looked a class act alongside Dejan Lovren.
Overall, the Cameroon international did well although he was susceptible to injury and played a total of 32 games last season. The club will be hoping he stays injury-free this term.

There was also the big saga surrounding his call-up to the African Cup of Nations. Matip had announced his retirement from internationals but his country still called him up and was trying to force his hand.

In the end the defender stayed strong and stuck to his word and didn’t not go so was available for a number of key domestic games for Liverpool in January.

For Agger he said he liked what he saw from the cultured defender and opened up about this on the official club website.

“He did well (in his) first season, it’s always tough, not only for defenders, but for any Premier League player to play your first season in the Premier League.

“You always have to adapt and I think he’s done very well. It’s the intensity of the game and the power, it’s so quick the Premier League compared to other leagues and you definitely have to get used to that.”

Agger is still very popular in Liverpool having played nine seasons for the club. He made 175 appearances and scored 9 goals which is a great return for a centre-back.

He was very stylish player who was extremely comfortable with a tremendous shot but ultimately was an excellent defender. He retired from professional football last year.