Joel Matip will not travel to Gabon to play in the Africa Cup of Nations

Liverpool defender Joel Matip has turned down the chance to resurrect his international career with Cameroon at the Africa Cup of Nations next month, according to Sky sources.

Matip has not played for his country since 2015 after criticising the setup within the national side and held talks with coach Hugo Broos over the issue.

But he has decided against ending his exile, thus handing Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp a boost by being available during the tournament, which takes place in Gabon from January 14 to February 5.

Matip took full part in training this week after missing the 4-3 defeat at Bournemouth with an ankle problem.

The centre-half travelled with the squad for the bonding trip to Barcelona and is likely to return to the first XI for the Super Sunday clash with West Ham at Anfield.