Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp expects defender Joel Matip to miss the Premier League leader’s next three matches because of an adductor strain.
The Cameroon player will likely be out of action for about three weeks after straining a muscle during Sunday’s 1-1 draw against West Bromwich Albion, Klopp said late Wednesday.
The centre-back sat out Wednesday’s 0-0 draw at Newcastle United, with Nathaniel Phillips starting in his place.
ALSO READ | Premier League: Steve Bruce Hails Newcastle United Goalkeeper Karl Darlow after Liverpool Draw
The normal stuff with this kind of injuries, (he will be out for) around about three weeks, Klopp said in his post-game press conference.
Liverpool has now won only two of eight league away games this season but still tops the table.
Matip’s absence is a tough blow for the Reds, who were already without injured defender Virgil van Dijk.
Liverpool travels to Southampton on Monday in the Premier League then plays at Aston Villa in the FA Cup on Jan. 8. Matip is also expected to miss the clash with bitter rival and second-placed Manchester United at Anfield on Jan. 17.
Read all the Latest News, Breaking News and Coronavirus News here
(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed)