Kabak fires Madrid warning shot over blossoming Liverpool double act

Ozan Kabak Liverpool TEAMtalk

Liverpool defender Ozan Kabak is backing himself and centre-back partner Nathaniel Phillips to secure another clean sheet in Tuesday’s clash with Real Madrid.

Kabak and Phillips, who have become the Reds’ surprise pairing this term, earned their fourth clean sheet together on Saturday. Liverpool beat Arsenal 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium to keep their top-four hopes alive. Indeed, they moved to within two points of fourth-placed Chelsea, who lost to West Brom.

However, the focus now turns to European duties for Jurgen Klopp‘s side.

Los Blancos await in the first leg of the sides’ Champions League quarter-final.

But having kept Mikel Arteta’s side at bay, Kabak is hopeful that the growing understanding between himself and Phillips’ can reap further benefits.

“With Nat, we know each other every day better and better,” Kabak told liverpoolfc.com.

“Now it’s three clean sheets in a row and I hope we will keep it up in the Madrid games too. It’s so important for us, the Champions League, and we are just so happy.”

Kabak’s upcoming appearance in the Champions League marks the highest point yet since taking on a rollercoaster move to Anfield.

Jurgen Klopp: Liverpool still in top-four race

Jurgen Klopp: Liverpool still in top-four race

Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool are still in the race to finish in the top four of the Premier League following their 3-0 win at Arsenal on Saturday.

The 20-year-old was drafted in on loan as emergency cover amid a raft of injuries and the Reds have an £18million purchase option in his loan deal from Bundesliga basement boys Schalke.

But amid the prospect of signing a permanent deal with Liverpool, the player’s focus is solely on performing for his club.

Kabak enjoying whirlwind Liverpool spell

Ozan Kabak Liverpool March 2021 TEAMtalk

“I can’t describe my feelings because everything [has happened] so quickly [since he joined Liverpool],” he added.

“I’m so happy that I’m playing for this huge club, it’s an honour for me.

“Every game, every second I’ve been here, I try to do my best and try to help the team. I am so happy that I am here.”

While the purchase option for Kabak is set at £18million, reports suggest that Liverpool are trying to get a cheaper deal.

READ MORE: Financial issues prompt twist as Liverpool discuss bargain new Kabak deal