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Liverpool’s defensive options are set to be boosted by the return of Joel Matip over the festive period.

The Reds centre-back was expected to be out until the new year when he was sidelined by a thigh injury a fortnight ago.

However, Matip, who has missed Liverpool’s last three matches, has responded well to treatment and is now back light training at Melwood. He won’t feature against West Brom on Wednesday night or at Bournemouth on Sunday but boss Jurgen Klopp admits he’s ahead of schedule.

“It could be possible that Joel will be back for some of our Christmas games,” Klopp said.

“I really hope so but it’s not for sure at this stage. The fact he’s running again outside is a good sign. If nothing else happens then he will be close.”

(Image: (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images))

In Matip’s absence, Klopp’s only fit senior centre-backs are Dejan Lovren and Ragnar Klavan. Joe Gomez is also an option there but he’s played most of his football this season at right-back.

Klopp insists captain Jordan Henderson is available to face West Brom - despite being on the receiving end of some poor challenges in the derby. However, striker Daniel Sturridge, who missed the game against Everton due to a tight hamstring, remains a doubt.

“Daniel didn’t train, it’s only a very minor thing. We will see if he’s involved,” he added.