https://theanfieldnoise.com/t/the-unreliable-rumours-thread/51/2479?u=iftikhar
2016/17: 32 games 2725 mins
2017/18: 35 games 2819 mins
2018/19: 31 games 2342 mins
2019/20: 13 games 1045 mins
2020/21: 12 games 866 mins
Last season he was kept out of the starting XI by the imperious form of Joe Gomez, otherwise he would have clocked more minutes. My point is; though not being omnipresent like VVD or Robertson, Matip contributes substantial minutes despite having serious fitness issues.
I think from next season onwards, Matip will take the Milner/Lovren role, an experienced and capable squad option and our CB roaster should look like this:
VVD: the unquestionable starter and pivot while affording him as much break possible.
Gomez & new CB: competing with and covering for each other for the other spot beside VVD.
Matip: when fit competing with Gomez & new CB for the other spot beside VVD.
Davies: Depth. VVD replacement in cup games and picking up odd games here & there.