Liverpool centre-back Joel Matip has been ruled out of the Reds' Champions League clash with Napoli, as confirmed by reliable journalist Neil Jones.

The Lowdown: Revenge on Napoli?

Jurgen Klopp's suffered a dire 2-1 defeat at home to Leeds United in the Premier League on Saturday but attention now turns to European commitments.

On Tuesday evening, Liverpool welcome high-flying Napoli to Anfield, knowing they must win by a four-goal margin to top their group.

In truth, it feels like a dead rubber, with numerous changes expected by the Reds, allowing key players to enjoy a much-needed night off, but Klopp could be forgiven for wanting revenge after such a horrific night in Naples.

The Latest: Matip ruled out

Taking to Twitter on Monday, Jones confirmed that Matip is still out, having not featured since the 3-2 defeat away to Arsenal earlier this month because of a calf issue:

"Matip is still out."

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The Verdict: Bad to worse...

This current period sums up Matip's Liverpool career, with the 31-year-old an outstanding centre-back when fit, but proving to be injured far too often.

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Supposed short absences seemingly turn into lengthy spells out of the team and there comes a point when Klopp must start to think about life without the defender.

With so many injuries ravaging the squad, tonight would have been the perfect chance for Matip to get some sharpness back, but the manager may now be forced to use Virgil van Dijk again, who has already racked up 1,620 minutes on the pitch this season.

One has to wonder if Matip is one of many ageing players who could find themselves out the door soon, with his contract expiring in 2024 and the injuries getting worse by the season.