The Greek Scouser’s Perspective: Tsimikas Finds Joy in Liverpool’s Shadows

The Art of Being Second Choice

As I sip my freddo espresso in Melwood’s canteen (yes, we still call it that), Kostas Tsimikas’ revelation about playing “nearly 30 games per season” strikes me as quintessential Liverpool mentality. The Greek international’s 27-game average over four years would spark transfer requests elsewhere, yet here he sits - all smiles while discussing squad rotation like a philosopher discussing stoicism.

“For other clubs, maybe 40 games in farmer leagues,” he grins, using that Scouse-inflected English acquired from years of dressing room banter. His math isn’t wrong - those 27 appearances include battles against Europe’s elite rather than midweek fixtures against literal farmers.

That 115 Number Game

When Manchester City’s 115 charges surface in conversation, Tsimikas delivers the line of the interview: “I’ve played 115 games for Liverpool… coincidentally the same number.” The ensuing laughter masks what every Premier League observer thinks - one involves financial doping allegations, the other simply a dependable backup left-back doing his job.

His disinterest in City’s case reflects modern footballers’ tunnel vision: “We wake up happy, sleep happy - that’s all matters.” Poetic, really, from a man whose crosses sometimes resemble abstract art.

Trent’s Spanish Fantasy

The interview turns poignant discussing Trent Alexander-Arnold. “From day one he wanted Madrid,” Tsimikas reveals, confirming what Merseyside feared. There’s melancholy as he describes their five-year partnership - the overlapping runs, the set-piece routines, the shared Uber rides after night games.

“Local fans want legends to stay forever,” he observes wisely, touching on football’s eternal conflict between sentiment and ambition. His tribute to Trent’s contributions carries weight - this isn’t PR-speak but genuine admiration from someone who witnessed the academy graduate become world-class.

Looking Ahead

As our chat concludes amidst the clatter of training gear being packed away, two truths emerge:

1. Liverpool retains players through culture more than promises
2. Even Real Madrid dreams can’t erase bonds forged at Kirkby

Tsimikas may never be first-choice, but in capturing these nuances, he proves himself first-rate interviewee material.