Liverpool handed huge injury boost for Man United clash

Liverpool have been handed a huge injury boost.

The Reds have been decimated by injuries, especially at the back. However, one of the club’s most injury-prone players is set to return for one of the biggest games of the season.

Jurgen Klopp has not been able to rely on Joel Matip this season. After playing just nine Premier League games last season, the former Schalke man has featured just eight times in 2020/2021.

While his lack of appearances last season were partly the cause of Joe Gomez playing so well, this season we’ve needed Matip more than ever and his body responded with a series of injuries.

This has left Klopp with no senior centre-back to pick from. Fabinho, a defensive midfielder, and Jordan Henderson were forced to play at the back against Southampton.

Liverpool play Manchester United on the 17th of January. That game could be an early title-decider, especially after the Reds’ poor form.

Matip could be back for that game, said the Mirror. With Manchester United in good form, this is really important. Henderson looked okay as a centre-back, but it’s clearly not his best position.

Rhys Williams and Nat Phillips, two youngsters with a handful of senior appearances under their belt, weren’t trusted against Southampton. If Klopp thought they couldn’t deal with the Saints’ forward line, he’ll certainly double their ability against the Red Devils.

Liverpool need to turn around their league form. Victory against United would be a fine way to settle supporters’ nerves and put their best foot forward in their attempt to win back-to-back Premier League titles.

Beating a fierce rival is good for squad and fan happiness, too, and it would help put United back in their place for another six months.

How important is Matip’s return for Liverpool, or can we cope without the Schalke man? Let us know in the comments below.