Liverpool defender aiming to ‘repay faith’ from Jurgen Klopp this season
Liverpool centre-back Nat Phillips has revealed his aim of impressing Jurgen Klopp throughout the 2021-22 campaign.
The Bolton-born defender became a first-team regular last season during the height of Liverpool’s defensive crisis. He appeared alongside Fabinho at the back following injuries to Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip.
Phillips impressed Klopp with his determined and passionate defending, which helped the Reds to finish third in the Premier League.
Liverpool chiefs opted to spend £36million on Ibrahima Konate in the summer to make sure another crisis doesn’t happen.
But Phillips is still a Klopp favourite and is likely to be called upon in cup competitions.
In an interview with Metro, Phillips said: “The manager, for me personally, has been such a big help in every aspect he possibly could have since I got into the first team.
“Years ago, when I was trying to get a loan move away from the club to get matches, Stuttgart came to fruition for me because the manager wasn’t satisfied with the other options that came up and he went out of his way to sort the situation out. He has always done his best for me.”
The 24-year-old has pledged his long-term future to Liverpool by penning a new four-year contract.
“It’s nice to know — I had a bit of time left on my deal and the club haven’t hung around in extending it, which I think is recognition for last season from them,” he added.
“It’s a massive boost for me and a really nice feeling. It gives me extra motivation to try and get in the team and repay that faith.”
Phillips is yet to play this term, although he could soon feature. The Reds take on Norwich City in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday at 19:45.
Liverpool target makes bold claim
Liverpool-linked midfielder Yves Bissouma has made an ambitious claim about his talent.
When asked who the best central midfielder in the Prem is, he said: “I don’t want to be arrogant but that is my mind. For me, it is me.
“Because in my head, I am working to be the best. I know in the Premier League there are many good midfielders.
“But for me, it is me. That gives me confidence and the energy to show people that yeah, I am here. I am Bissouma.”
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