Jurgen Klopp has been charged by the Football Association following his actions and words in the 4-3 win over Tottenham on Sunday. The FA released a statement on Tuesday evening confirming the charge, for which Klopp has until Friday to respond to. The statement reads: “It is alleged that the manager’s comments regarding the match official during post-match media interviews constitutes improper conduct in that they imply bias, and/or question the integrity of the referee, and/or are personal/offensive, and/or bring the game into disrepute.” Klopp will still be on the sidelines for Wednesday’s game against Fulham and likely against Brentford on Saturday.
Klopp went to great lengths to explain himself and exactly what occurred between him and referee Paul Tierney. He admitted that his actions were out of emotion and anger and regretted creating headlines. Tierney told him that he wanted to give him a red card, but the fourth official said that Klopp’s actions were only worthy of a yellow card, which he was given. Klopp also highlighted why he was so angry at the officials for yet another incredible decision against Mo Salah. When asked whether he may appeal the decision, Klopp said he probably has to expect a punishment and that he does not question the integrity of the referees. This is not the first time Klopp has been charged by the FA; he served a one-game suspension in November after the FA successfully appealed against an independent regulatory commission decision to only fine him £30,000 in regards to his behaviour in confronting assistant referee Gary Beswick and subsequently being sent off by referee Anthony Taylor.