Joel Matip might have missed out on the 4-3 loss against Bournemouth in the last game for Liverpool but the central defender did pick up the player of the month award. The 25-year-old picked up the honour after being voted as the best player among the Liverpool fans in an online poll.

The month started well for the Cameroon defender as the Reds destroyed Watford 6-1. The next game saw Matip and Dejan Lovren keep a clean sheet at Southampton before helping the Reds win against Sunderland at Anfield 2-0.

The loss of Matip certainly was a big one as the Reds lost out a 3-1 lead at the Vitality but the central defender was happy to receive the accolade.

Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com, the former Schalke defender said,

“It feels positive. It’s nice – a good thing!

“It’s an honour and I’m thankful that [the fans] voted for me. As a defender, if you get something like this, it’s always special.”

Matip hoping for return against West Ham

The 25-year-old defender is expected to return to the starting XI for the Reds as they take on West Ham on Sunday. Liverpool do need to keep a Hammers side out that features Dimitri Payet, amongst other players and could also bring on Andy Carroll, who seems to be a thorn in the side for the Reds.

Carroll was a former Liverpool player and he might have a point to prove at Anfield but Matip needs to be at his best if he is to thwart the former Newcastle striker.

“It was a little backstep. But this week I started training again, I’m feeling better and better, and I hope I can help the team at the weekend.

“I’m on a good way and I’m feeling fit.”

There are many who have claimed that Matip has been the best piece of business done by Klopp this season. Matip might also be the best free agent to have come across in the Premier League this time around and credit has to be given to the German manager for signing the defender from Schalke at the end of last season.

Liverpool will need to pick up the three points against West Ham if they are to close down the gap to Chelsea, who lead the table. The Blues are four points ahead of the Reds with both sides having played the same number of games so far this season. Matip’s return certainly will tip the scales in favour of the Merseyside club against West Ham.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2AUrpsyLFOs