"In phenomenal shape" - Jurgen Klopp on Liverpool defender

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has claimed that Reds centre-back Joe Gomez is currently in terrific shape.

The 25-year-old signed a new long-term deal with the club earlier this week. Gomez will remain at Anfield until the conclusion of the 2026-27 season.

With that being the case, Klopp was asked to touch on the aforementioned topic. When doing so, the German mentioned that Gomez is in top physical condition ahead of the new campaign.

“In terms of right now, Joe is in phenomenal shape. We had a few weeks off and when I returned to AXA I saw him and my first thought was ‘Wow!’” Klopp told the club’s official website.

“Physically, he is in such a good place and now all he needs is a good pre-season and the rhythm that comes from this.”

Anfield Watch Verdict

It is brilliant to hear that Gomez has signed a new deal. But, it is equally brilliant to hear that the centre-back is fit.

Gomez has struggled with injuries in recent times. We never want to see any Red sitting on the sidelines because of an injury.

So, it's great to hear that our long-term centre-back is in top physical condition. It will be interesting to see who Klopp starts in the heart of his defence next season.

Virgil van Dijk and Joel Matip were his first-choice centre-backs last season. Despite being fit for the entire 2021-22 campaign, Gomez only made 21 appearances.

But, we do expect Gomez to feature a lot more next season, otherwise he probably wouldn't have signed a new deal.

Hopefully the 25-year-old has a big pre-season and hits the ground running when the competitive fixtures come about.