Quick, strong, good crosser – the expert view on Kostas Tsimikas

Liverpool have completed the signing of Kostas Tsimikas.

The Greek defender will be a bit of an unknown quantity for many Liverpool fans, who have been forced into doing some research in order to get up to speed on the player.

Kostas Tsimikas will join as a back-up to Andy Robertson, but he already possess many of the qualities that manager Jurgen Klopp requires of his full-backs.

Hellas Football is an English language blog and Twitter account that specialises in the Greek domestic game, and Liverpool Chronicle spoke to them about sporting director Michael Edwards’ new signing.

According to the experts, Tsimikas is good defensively as well as going forward due to his tremendous endurance – something that’s prevalent in Andy Robertson as well.

"Hellas Football said: “Tsimikas’ defensive abilities are as good as his offensive abilities, a pacey player with good ball control, shows great endurance and likes runs down the flank and whip in crosses.”"

You may have seen the compilation videos showing the left-back whipping in excellent crosses for the forwards to attack, or the more ridiculous one from Olympiakos’ game against Arsenal. Both show him in a good light and prove Tsimikas’s ability to do the right thing in a number of situations.

Klopp will certainly give him an adaption period. Getting this deal done early will be extremely helpful to the player and the backroom team, as it’ll give the Greek defender time to feel comfortable in his surroundings and get used to the intensity of the way Liverpool play.

The difference in standard between the Greek Super League and the Premier League is high, but it won’t be impossible to bridge.

From the Greek Super League to the Premier League is an enormous leap and no doubt holds high expectations.

"“From the Greek Super League to the Premier League is an enormous leap and no doubt holds high expectations. One thing to remember is Tsimikas is yet to reach his peak. He concentrates on football and is a very hard worker.”"

Even Robertson needed six months before he won the manager’s trust, and Tsimikas will almost certainly be provided with an even longer acclimatisation period.

There will be chances to play though. Even Robbo hasn’t been immune from the demands of the job and has looked tired at times. The ability to rest him and rotate with someone of similar quality is going to be huge to the side.

For too long we’ve looked less dangerous without the Scot in the side. If the experts are to believed, those days should be over soon.