“Healthy environment”- 24-year-old English ace reveals what is making Liverpool’s defence tick this season

Liverpool star Joe Gomez reveals the secret behind the club’s good start to the season

According to Liverpool Echo, Liverpool defender Joe Gomez believes the healthy environment prevailing in the Reds squad is behind their good start to the season.

This is in contrast to the defensive crisis that played Jurgen Klopp’s side last season. With his first choice centre-backs all incapacitated, the German was forced to rely on the likes of Rhys Williams and Nathaniel Philipps. Both players to their credit stepped up and ensured the club ended the season in the top four.

The arrival of Ibrahima Konate and renewed fitness of Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, and Joel Matip is a welcome sight for all Liverpool fans. The Reds have conceded only 1 goal in the Premier League this season. The difference a fit backline makes is clear to see.

Gomez feels that there is healthy competition for the centre-back position this season. This has helped the club strengthen its defence considerably. He believes the competition helps push each player to improve themselves.

“We strive to push each other every day. It’s a healthy environment. We’re all really close. Everyone knows how close I am with Virgil, but I am with Joel as well.”

The 24-year-old Englishman was handed the Liverpool captain’s armband for the first time in their latest Carabao Cup fixture against Norwich City on Tuesday. The Reds recorded a 3-0 victory thanks to goals from Dimock Origi and Takumi Minamino.

Donning the armband was a proud moment for Gomez who, despite his age, is already a Liverpool veteran. Whether this is something Klopp will look to explore in the future remains to be seen.

“For sure it’s a proud moment. It’s a special occasion. Obviously, I was aware a lot of the senior lads were out of the game, but I suppose it gave me a chance to lead the boys.”

The real deal!

The addition of Konate has given Liverpool some much-needed depth in central defence. Gomez has also opened up on the 22-year-old Frenchman’s inclusion into the squad.

The 24-year-old Englishman believes that the Liverpool newcomer is ready to perform and is already a proven commodity at the highest level. Both of Konate’s starts have ended in clean sheets so far, a good omen indeed.

“Ibou is a top guy and an unbelievable player. Look at his attributes, you can see how good he is. When I was younger I had Virg, but Ibou is already experienced, he’s already a top player, he’s played in the Champions League.”

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Jurgen Klopp has shown himself open to rotating his squad this season. With the domestic and European competitions coming thick and fast the manager would want to preserve his players as much as possible.

With five good defenders to call upon, the central defence is today one of Liverpool’s strongest positions both in terms of depth and quality. It is truly amazing the difference a year can make.