Matip’s Season Ending Injury
It was the news no-on wanted but wasn’t unexpected for all reds. Jurgen Klopp confirmed after the Sheffield United game that Joel Matip had ruptured his ligaments against Fulham and is likely out for the season. Whilst the long-term implications for the 32 year-old are obvious, the January window is right around the corner and thoughts will turn to the knock-on effects. The games come thick and fast and with Jurgen Klopp’s men fighting on all fronts, numbers will be crucial. The manager may well see it differently from many, exactly like the summer, so even the loss of such a senior player may not give some fans exactly what they want. January could still be very quiet.
Fanbase Reactions and Defensive Options
That will be unfathomable to some sections of the fanbase, although the great majority were astonished Liverpool signed zero defensive reinforcements in January. Matip had rediscovered his peak form this season and was arguably Van Dijk’s best partner ahead of Konate in the pecking order. Combined with the fact the Frenchman has missed a number of games through muscle injuries, the desire for new blood is understandable. Joe Gomez has a similarly patchy record and seems to be in a different position each game, whilst for all the potential Jarrell Quansah has there would be an element of gambling if you need to play him regularly. There’s merit to those sentiments too.
Klopp’s Trust in Youth and Current Squad
On the other hand, Jurgen Klopp has passionately advocated for the Warrington born youngster in press conferences and referenced his development as a rationale for last summer. There seems little doubt he trusts Quansah as evidence already this campaign. Gomez and Konate are more than able options to partner Virgil Van Dijk, whilst the return of the promising Conor Bradley means cover at right back places less demand on the former Charlton man. Further injuries could naturally change the picture but as it stands, the manager may well believe that there’s still enough within this squad to enjoy a successful season. 
Analysing Squad Depth and Potential Transfers
Matip’s metrics are of the highest order this campaign, yet there’s more than enough ability across the likes of Konate, Gomez and Quansah to provide real quality cover. However, it may well be concerns around the injury records than performance of those that give cause for concern. Liverpool will always look at moves for further additions in January if they feel the deal is too good to turn down, as they’ve proved before with the likes of Diaz and Gakpo. However, as it stands many don’t expect any defenders in this window and it would be a change in tact if that were to happen. Don’t be too surprised if further setbacks change the picture though.
