Liverpool’s emerging cult hero has never heard of Alan Hansen

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Joel Matip is fast becoming a cult hero at Liverpool. The former Schalke man arrived this summer on a free, a little below the radar as the deal had been arranged six months before.

But since breaking into the side, the 27 year old has impressed consistently, bringing a calmness to a back four that has been infected by players who are too impulsive or inconsistent in recent years.

Matip’s considered style alongside the more aggressive Dejan Lovren is working wonders for a previously porous team, and is a huge part of Liverpool’s climb towards the top of the table.

The Bochum born defender’s performances have lead to all kinds of flattering comparisons with old Reds stars, not least of all Alan Hansen, who showered praise on the Cameroon international.

Unfortunately the praise didn’t mean a huge amount to Matip, who confessed to not knowing who Hansen was in an interview with the Liverpool Echo. Despite this, he dealt with the question with his customary coolness:

“I’m sorry, I have to say I haven’t heard of him,” Matip said.

“But I know this club has won many trophies in the past and has had many great defenders.

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