Nathaniel Phillips’ debut display in the Liverpool FC shirt on Saturday against West Ham United won the 23-year-old centre-back lavish praise from his boss Jurgen Klopp in the latter’s post-game interview following the 2-1 win over the Hammers.
Phillips made his top-flight debut for the Reds on Saturday, and he was an ever-present figure at the back for them, winning headers and maintaining calm in his distribution from the back.
Klopp was joyous with his player’s performance, as the Liverpool FC boss had to endure a number of injury concerns to his key defenders over the last few weeks, putting the German in an anxious position over fielding Phillips on West Ham’s visit to Anfield.
“The counter-press of the two centre-halves was exceptional.
“Nat Phillips, wow. I couldn’t be more happy. I asked him before the game if he was nervous.
“I told him I would be. He was awake from the first second, played his stuff and had a good game.”
“He’s a brilliant guy, smart guy, intelligent, everything. He’s not easy on the eye, he’s not Messi but who cares? In the air, he’s a monster! He was incredible.
The Reds clinched a crucial victory at home against David Moyes’ side despite going behind in the opening minutes at Anfield, with goals in either half from Salah and Jota sealing all three points for the Merseyside giants, and putting them into the first position in the league standings.
