Matip delighted to be back playing

The Cameroonian saw his 2017/18 campaign come to a halt in April as he underwent surgery on the injury, thus missing Liverpool's run to the Champions League final.

However, the towering defender is now back fit and looking to ensure he is in shape to start the new season, particularly with fellow defender Dejan Lovren having been granted an extended break following his involvement in the World Cup.

 "I'm on a good way," he told Liverpool's official website.

"I still need some time but I feel good and I enjoy being back on the pitch.

"I will go step by step and I think these next days will help me to increase my fitness level and to get in better shape."

The 'Reds' are currently out in the USA preparing to take part in the International Champions Cup and whilst temperatures are sweltering, Matip believes the conditions are a good thing.

"Over the day you feel it but when you are on the pitch, you enjoy to play with the ball. We enjoy training," he added.

"The intensity increases but that's normal. This is preparation but we are on a good way, we're still positive, and we're working hard to get [in] the best shape."