Jurgen Klopp has come out to clear speculation over Matips future with Cameroon amid Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.
Matip has told Jurgen Klopp that he will not be returning to international football with Cameroon for the Africa Cup of Nations, the Liverpool manager has confirmed.
Matip has not played for Cameroon since 2015 but the recent election of Samuel Eto’o as president of Cameroon’s Football Association had led to reports that the defender could be persuaded to come out of international exile.
The centre-back who was born in Germany, retired from international football in 2015, while he was still at Schalke, having earned 27 caps for his country, scoring their only goal at the 2014 World Cup.
“Joel doesn't consider returning to international football.”
“I spoke to him and he said no. It's just news out there in the world with nothing behind it,” Klopp stated.
AFCON is set to take place from January 9, until February 6, during which Liverpool have their FA Cup third round tie against Shrewsbury as well as Premier League games with Brentford and Crystal Palace.
Meanwhile, Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Naby Keita are set to represent their respective nations at AFCON.
Klopp also added that Joe Gomez will be staying at the club despite recent speculation about a potential loan move.
Roberto Firmino has returned to full training and will be available for Thursday's game against Newcastle after six weeks out with a hamstring injury.
Curtis Jones is also back in training after an eye injury which has left him sidelined since October. He is unlikely to feature on Thursday, however and Divock Origi is also likely to miss out.