Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has provided a Joel Matip update.
The Cameroonian centre-back has been a regular starter in the team in the absence of Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez, producing some pretty decent performances in the heart of the defense.
However, an adductor injury sustained in the match against West Bromwich Albion has kept him out of action.
Matip trained prior to the Manchester United fixture but was omitted from the matchday squad. However, Klopp said that he is in the mix to start in this week’s clash against Burnley at Anfield, albeit not being 100% sure regarding his availability.
"Speaking following yesterday’s goalless draw, the Liverpool boss told the club’s official website: “He will be in the mix, but I don’t know. I’m pretty sure he trained today, another tough session, [that] means [he] will be from tomorrow on with us. Probably yes, we don’t know.”"
The injuries to van Dijk and Gomez has propelled Klopp to utilise Fabinho, Jordan Henderson and the inexperienced duo of Rhys Williams and Nathaniel Phillips in that position.
Matip forged a good partnership with the Brazilian in central defence and he will be needed to be back as soon as possible for a number of reasons.
Firstly, Williams and Phillips haven’t looked very convincing at centre-back with the former having a role to play in Liverpool dropping points against West Brom. Secondly, Henderson while doing fairly well in that position in the last couple of games, is best used in midfield. A trio of the England international, Georginio Wijnaldum and Thiago would work well.
Matip has so far made ten appearances across all competitions this season so far. scoring a goal against Wolves while providing two assists. The 29-year-old is back in training so we can hope him to be fit enough to feature against Burnley.
Liverpool are in dire need of a win after going four successive League games without a victory. The Reds will be eager to get back to winning ways in their next match against Burnley and it’s a game in which, they should get three points on paper.
However, the team, particularly the forwards will need to bring in their A-game if that is to happen.