Liverpool defender Joel Matip is determined to build on his debut Premier League season.

The elegant centre-back excelled in his maiden season with the Reds following his free transfer switch from Schalke last summer.

He told liverpoolfc.com: “I really like to have the ball. It's one of the nicest things when you're out on the pitch. I try to do my best: when to look forward, when to create chances or help my teammates in front.

“But I am very self-critical as well. I always want to improve myself. You have to work hard and keep trying and learning – that's the way you get better.

“Before I came here I knew about the Premier League. I saw a lot of games and I had an idea what to expect. So I prepared right from the beginning. Maybe the top teams try to play a bit more, but every team gives everything in this league.

“The ball goes from one end of the pitch to the other, all the time, so you can always be vulnerable if you're not at your best. You have to concentrate because in every match just one situation can decide it."