Kostas Tsimikas asserted that his skill level has improved significantly since he joined Liverpool.
Tsimikas, who joined Anfield from Olympiacos in 2020, is currently in his fourth season there. The Greek appears to have extended his stay in Merseyside after agreeing to a new contract yesterday.
Tsimikas gave liverpoolfc.com a look back at his time at Liverpool thus far after signing a contract extension.
When asked if he felt his performance had improved in the three years since his arrival, the 27-year-old was certain of his response.
“As I recall myself [when I arrived], I much improved”, claims Tsimikas.
“Especially when you train with these types of guys, it inspires you to your maximum potential because you feel like a big boy as a player and become like a part of them!
“I believe it was really essential for me to be surrounded by all these different types of players [and] very nice individuals. You know, to be here is the most difficult thing. They helped me feel like I was a part of them right away and I am so grateful for it. They showed me their affection right away”.
Tsimikas notices progress
Tsimikas has undoubtedly improved significantly since joining the Reds in 2020.
It is true that despite being hired as Andy Robertson’s backup, Kostas hasn’t been able to step up and replace the Scot.
But specifically over the past two years, the left-back has occasionally appeared to be extremely capable of doing so.
During the 2021/22 season, there was a period when it actually seemed as though the mantle was about to be handed off.
Since then, Robertson has categorically clawed that back in his favor. That doesn’t mean, though, that Tsimikas’ challenge has ceased to exist.
The international player from Greece may still be committed to Liverpool for the long term based on this new contract. He may yet have the opportunity to succeed Robbo as Jurgen Klopp’s first-choice left-back because he is a few years younger.
You have the impression that Tsimikas might need to earn a few levels in order for it to occur. When you only play every third or fourth week, it’s difficult to significantly develop, but if Kostas is given more chances, don’t be shocked to see him seize them.