Liverpool news: handed major boost as Joel Matip turns down chance to play for Cameroon at the African Cup of Nations
Defender last played for his country in 2015 but the Reds will lose Sadio Mane
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JOEL MATIP has handed Liverpool a major boost after revealing he won't be playing at the African Cup of Nations.
Cameroon boss Hugo Broos was hoping the central defender would end his international exile and join the squad for the tournament in Gabon.
But the 25-year-old has insisted he will remain at the Reds during the crucial stage of the season despite holding talks with Broos.
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Matip has established himself as a regular in Jurgen Klopp's first team with a string of fine performances in the heart of defence.
The ex-Schalke man last played for Cameroon in 2015 having mustered 27 caps in total.
And although Matip will remain with Klopp's side, the German boss will lose winger Sadio Mane when the tournament starts on January 14.
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Mane will represent Senegal who are one of the favourites to go far in the competition.
And Liverpool face the prospect of losing their key man for up to a month as the Reds hope to remain in touching distance of top spot.
It may force Klopp to delve into the January transfer window with River Plate striker Lucas Alario attracting the German boss' attention.
The 24-year-old, who is valued at around £15million, has scored 10 goals in 24 Primera Division games in 2016 and a host of European clubs are on his trail.