According to reports from The Telegraph, Liverpool defender Joel Matip does not plan to take part in the 2017 African Cup of Nations.
The 6 foot 5 centre-back signed for the Reds during the summer, completing a Bosman move from FC Schalke, and is in line to face Chelsea in the Premier League this evening.
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He’s represented Cameroon on 27 occasions and was selected in their squads for the last two World Cups in South Africa and Brazil – both of which saw his country eliminated at the Group Stages.
But according to The Telegraph, the 25-year-old is not planning to be involved in Cameroon’s 2017 African Cup of Nations campaign, which kicks off in January.
Matip has cited his recent move to Liverpool, coupled with prior injury problems, as the main causes behind his decision not to take part – however, the defender admits the situation could change before the tournament kicks off next year.
As quoted by The Telegraph, he said; “I would say at the moment I will be concentrating on Liverpool. It is a long time until January so you never know, but that is the idea.”
“Last year I had injury problems. The extra games and travelling were going to make it harder for me. I had to listen to my body and it told me that the international week was the right time to have a break.
“I spoke with the Cameroon manager and he was not happy, but I have to do what is right to be 100 per cent and make sure I am not injured again, especially at an important time in my career starting at Liverpool.”
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