Matip has missed four of the last five matches for Liverpool

Philippe Coutinho and Joël Matip will both be absent for Liverpool’s New Year’s Eve showdown with Manchester City after losing their fitness battles to feature against Pep Guardiola’s side.

Jürgen Klopp, the Liverpool manager, is also set to be without the pair for the trip to Sunderland which follows just two days later on January 2 as the strength of his squad continues to be tested.

The visit of City to Anfield was always an ambitious target for Coutinho, who suffered damaged ankle ligaments in the win over Sunderland last month. The Brazilian playmaker suffered a setback in his recovery last week casting doubt on his availability and Klopp today confirmed he will be missing.

Coutinho has missed six games since suffering an ankle injury last month JULIAN FINNEY/GETTY IMAGES

“He’s in a good way,” said Klopp. “I spoke to