Matip withdrawn from Reds squad amid eligibility row

Matt Stead

Liverpool have confirmed that defender Joel Matip will miss their crunch class with Manchester United due to issues with FIFA.

Confusion has continued for the Anfield club as they seek confirmation from football’s governing body that the former Schalke man is eligible for selection.

Matip was not included in Cameroon’s squad for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), and has not appeared for his country since September 2015.

He has previously expressed his desire not to be considered for international competitions, but the Cameroon Football Federation have failed to confirm that Matip is allowed to play club football during the period of the AFCON.

A statement on Liverpool’s official website read: “Liverpool have subsequently repeatedly sought, as a matter of urgency, clarity from FIFA in this regard.

“This includes assurances the player was called up for the tournament in accordance with the world governing body’s regulations.

“It is Liverpool’s view that the player should be available for club football during the period of the competition and will continue to work for a speedy and unambiguous resolution.”