Joel Matip has been hampered by an ankle problem since joining Jurgen Klopp’s side in the summer on a free transfer The defender has been sidelined with an ankle ligament problem since the 2-2 draw with West Ham on December 11. Matip, 25, who underwent surgery on his ankle in the summer before joining on a free transfer after his contract expired with Schalke, admitted he may have aggravating an existing problem. “It’s getting better and in a few days I hope I’ll be back in full training,” the German-born Cameroon centre-back told the club’s official website.

The 25-year-old, who has missed training for a few days, needs to have his games managed as he deals with a persistent injury problem Jurgen Klopp has explained why Liverpool have to adopt a cautious approach to selecting Joel Matip on a matchday given his ankle issues. The centre-back, who joined the Anfield side on a free transfer from Schalke in the summer, has been a revelation in their rearguard.