Joel Matip out for six weeks; Liverpool injury crisis may change transfer plans

Jurgen Klopp has been dealt another defensive injury blow after Joel Matip sustained a broken collarbone during Liverpool’s win over Napoli.

The centre-back is set to undergo surgery in order to fix the issue and is expected to be sidelined for up to six weeks as a result.

Matip appeared in severe discomfort after challenging Kalidou Koulibaly for a header just seconds before the referee’s final whistle sounded to confirm a 1-0 victory for the Reds on Tuesday evening.

And it was later revealed that the 27-year-old had been sent straight to hospital after the match in order to undergo further tests.

Liverpool have now confirmed that they are set for a lengthy stint without their No.32 - and just as a busy festive fixture schedule gets under way.

Joe Gomez is already facing a similar lay-off having suffered a leg fracture during last week’s 3-1 victory over Burnley at Turf Moor.

Dejan Lovren made his return from a concussion as a substitute against Napoli, but is one of just two fit senior centre-halves available to Klopp alongside Virgil van Dijk.

The Reds were not considering entering the market for reinforcements during the January transfer window, though this latest blow may force a rethink.