Jurgen Klopp explains Joel Matip substitution v Arsenal

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has revealed that the decision to bring Joel Matip off during the game with Arsenal was down to a fitness worry, rather than anything tactical.

Matip has played a fair bit this season for Liverpool, which is good to see after several fitness concerns at the club during his time on Merseyside.

Indeed, he has shown real quality this season but came off at half-time against Arsenal on Thursday night.

And, that said, Jurgen Klopp has revealed that the decision behind that was a purely fitness-related one compared to anything on his performance:

Anfield Watch Verdict

It sounds more precautionary than anything else with Matip and that is what he needs from time to time.

He has been a lot better with his fitness this season, and hopefully he'll be back at it as soon as possible.

Ibrahima Konate is showing he is a capable back up, though, so that is a positive in itself.