CB Dejan Lovren
Thanks to an injury and attitude problems for Mamadou Sakho, Lovren gets the first crack at partnering Matip. Hell, even if Sakho was fit and on his best behavior, it’d still probably be Lovren.
Lovren and Matip make a good fit on paper. The two are confident, good leaders and comfortable (enough) with the rock at their feet. Both are strong in the air and confident in stepping up and winning the ball. Their similarities are compatible.
Once Karius rejoins the team between the pipes, the spine will be much stronger than last season and fans may be able to be confident about an adequate defensive ability for the first time in a while.
Next: LB Alberto Moreno