Liverpool defender Joel Matip's protracted return to first-team duties has hit a snag.
The Reds announced Monday that the centre-half suffered a muscle injury against Borussia Dortmund on Sunday, prompting his removal from the club's United States pre-season tour.
"The defender picked up the issue midway through the first half of the International Champions Cup fixture and was immediately substituted," Liverpool's statement read. "Though the muscle injury suffered in his upper leg is not considered to be a long-term concern, Matip will not be available for selection in the remaining two games in America."
Matip, 26, appeared in 25 league matches for Liverpool in his debut season in England following a free transfer from Schalke, but none since the last day of March against Crystal Palace when the former Cameroon international suffered a thigh injury.
Liverpool's mention of an "upper leg" problem for the defender hints at a recurrence of that thigh injury. "He is therefore returning to Merseyside and will continue his recovery at Melwood," the club's statement added.
