Liverpool defender Joel Matip is unsure what to expect ahead of their derby restart at Everton.

The coronavirus pandemic put the season on hold and meant the champagne remained on ice with Liverpool a matter of points away from a first Premier League title.

Their first game back is a short trip to Goodison Park to take on Merseyside rivals Everton.

Matip told the club's official website : "I think every game would be difficult, it doesn't matter who we play against.

"Now we play against Everton and this is a special game for both teams, but to start again I think will be a weird and special moment for every team.

"I think it doesn't matter which team we played against or what were the circumstances, we just try to prepare as best as possible to be ready there and to really start quickly from the first second when we are back on the pitch, back in the stadium, for a proper Premier League game.

"It's a great feeling to be back on the ball and [to be] looking forward to being back on the pitch and to play proper games. It will be fantastic to be back on the field.

"I think the circumstances for every team are quite difficult but we are well prepared and I am confident that we can strike back."