---
title: "Liverpool receive huge boost as Matip returns to training"
canonical: "https://readliverpoolfc.com/news/liverpool-receive-huge-boost-as-matip-returns-to-training/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Henry Jackson"
section: "Liverpool News"
published: "2020-10-13T18:25:17Z"
modified: "2020-10-13T18:26:50Z"
---

# Liverpool receive huge boost as Matip returns to training

Joel Matip has returned to training for Liverpool, acting as a huge boost for the Reds.

According to the *[Liverpool Echo](https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/)*‘s Paul Gorst on [Twitter](https://twitter.com/ptgorst/status/1316075833728135168?s=20), the Cameroonian was back at Melwood on Tuesday, alongside returning pair Thiago and Sadio Mane.

Matip has played [just one minute](https://www.whoscored.com/Players/74341/Show/Joel-Matip) of football this season – he came on as a late substitute against Leeds United – after suffering from a [muscle injury](https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/joel-matip-liverpool-injury-news-18967870).

The 29-year-old now looks in contention for Saturday’s Merseyside derby clash with Everton on Saturday afternoon, however, as Liverpool look to go level on points with their rivals.

### Read Liverpool Verdict

Matip’s return is huge for Jurgen Klopp, in terms of the defensive options it gives him. He has been having to make do with Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez as his only fit, established centre-backs, which is far from ideal.

Staying fit has been Matip’s biggest issue over the years, but when he is available he has proven to be a key man, famously being a [Man of the Match contender](https://www.thisisanfield.com/2019/06/tottenham-0-2-liverpool-player-ratings/) in the 2019 Champions League final.

With Gomez struggling for form, I would certainly consider throwing Matip in this weekend, although it would be a risk, given his lack of football.

It could make sense to use Fabinho at centre-back instead, allowing Thiago and Jordan Henderson to come into the midfield, also giving Gomez a break from the team without risking Matip.

The hope is that Matip can now enjoy an extended run back in the squad, showing that he can be trusted fitness-wise this season. Liverpool need him available regularly.