Joel Matip will be feeling angry at Jurgen Klopp and ready to ask questions of the Liverpool boss after losing his place in the side against Villarreal, claims Rio Ferdinand.
The Reds were brilliant from first whistle to last as they secured a commanding 2-0 first-leg win in the Champions League semi-finals. Really, the margin of victory could, and should, have been far greater with Klopp’s side far superior. You can see how we rated the players, with one Liverpool man earning an impressive nine.
Two goals in as many second-half minutes set the tone for Liverpool. Pervis Estupinan’s own goal, followed by Sadio Mane’s 20th of the season earned the win.
After the game, Klopp explained why Liverpool had, in the words of pundits, eased off and not added a third.
However, Liverpool will be confident of securing their place in the final when they travel to El Madrigal for the second leg.
Liverpool, of course, remain very much in the hunt for four trophies.
With the Carabao Cup in the bag, they face Chelsea in the FA Cup final. They are also looking to beat Manchester City to the Premier League title. They also look to be on course to also meet in the Champions League final.
As they chase down an unparelled four trophies, Klopp will be forced to utilise his squad as he sees fit.
That said, the fact that Klopp opted to rest the imperious Matip for Ibrahima Konate raised some eyebrows before kick-off.
Matip has started 27 Premier League games this season – easily his best season to date for the Reds.
But he has shared European duties with summer signing Konate. In fairness, the Frenchman has also performed exceptionally well.
But, after a starring in Sunday’s win over Everton, Ferdinand claims why the defender will be feeling angry.
“If I am Joel Matip, I am fuming,” Ferdinand told BT Sport before kick-off.
“He has been exceptional all season and we talk about being the best defenders on form in the league, he would be in there for a shout after…