Ahead of their all-important clash with Manchester United, Liverpool are sweating on the fitness of Joel Matip who is now a doubt to feature.
Joel Matip faces a frantic race against time to be fit for Sunday’s crunch Premier League clash with Manchester United.
Jurgen Klopp is hoping to welcome back the Cameroonian who has been out of action since his side’s 1-1 draw with West Brom.
Matip picked up an adductor injury against the Baggies just after making his return from an initial back problem that forced him off at half-time against Fulham. It’s fair to say injuries have not been particularly kind to the 29-year-old this season.
As it stands, Liverpool have no fit senior centre-backs to call upon following long-term injuries to Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez.
Youngsters Rhys Williams and Nat Phillips are ready to come in if needed while makeshift defender Fabinho holds things together.
Jordan Henderson featured in defence during the 1-0 defeat at Southampton but Liverpool clearly their captain’s push in midfield instead.
As per The Mirror, Matip is now running out of time to prove his fitness for this weekend’s big clash at Anfield.
He is close to a full return but is yet to train with the first-team, meaning he is currently doubtful as things stand.
Klopp would need Matip to participate in at least two full training sessions before being considered for selection.
Liverpool are set to play a fixture roughly every four days in the coming weeks. With that in mind, Klopp is unlikely to risk Matip if he is not fully convinced.
Given the importance of the game against United, the Cameroonian’s absence would come as another big blow for Liverpool as injuries continue to plague them this season.
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