Liverpool head coach Jurgen Klopp has confirmed Cameroon defender Joel Matip will not be heading to the Africa Cup of Nations in his home country.
It was claimed in local media that Matip – who last represented his nation back in 2015 – was considering returning to international football for the AFCON after Samuel Eto’o was appointed Fecafoot president.
However, Klopp was quick to dismiss the speculation with two of his most influential players already heading to the continental showpiece at a crucial stage of their season.
“(Joel) doesn’t consider (returning to international football),” Liverpool boss Klopp revealed, as per The Athletic.
“I spoke to him and he said no. It’s just news out there in the world with nothing behind (it).”
Matip amassed 25 caps for the Indomitable Lions between 2010 and 2015 and represented them at the two FIFA World Cups.
