Joel Matip has hailed team-mate Virgil van Dijk as the 'complete defender' and a key part of Liverpool's transformation into title contenders.
Signed from Southampton for £75million in January 2018, Van Dijk has established himself as one of the best centre-backs in the world since arriving at Anfield.
His impressive form has been crucial to Jurgen Klopp's men matching Manchester City in the Premier League this season, and they remain in contention for a first title in 29 years with six games remaining.
Asked about the Dutchman's contributions to the Reds' form, Matip said: “He’s a great defender.
“And being around him, I think everybody improves. He has had a big impact on the improvement. It’s great to play [with] him. He’s a complete defender and he knows what to do.
“Every defender does things a little bit differently. You always need some time to really know each other. This is normal. I think we need this time in a good way and this is working most of the time quite well.”
Handed a chance by injuries to both Joe Gomez and Dejan Lovren, Matip has partnered Van Dijk in each of Liverpool's last 12 outings in all competitions.
The former Cameroon international is glad to have overcome his own fitness issues to feature more regularly, but is still looking to make improvements to his game.
“It’s not too bad; I always know that I have to improve but it’s a good feeling to be on the pitch and to play,” he added.
“If you win it’s also not too bad. I’m happy. But you know you have always to improve, to get better, to be part of the team.”
