Jurgen Klopp addressed the media after his side made it seven wins in a row with an impressive 3-0 victory over Leicester. Here are the 5 key points from the manager as he reflected on Liverpool’s performance:
1. Not perfect, but “really good”: The victory extended Liverpool’s winning run to seven straight games, but Klopp stopped short of describing it as a perfect night for his side. He called it a “really good” display from the Reds, but noted that he would have liked to control the game better in the second half.
2. Praise for resurgent Jones: Klopp cited injury issues as a reason for Curtis Jones’ somewhat staggered development at the club and went on to describe his counter-pressing and speed of play as “exceptional” when discussing his areas of recent improvement. His brace prompted the manager to hail the midfielder’s “super” finishing.
3. Firmino has a “chance” for Aston Villa: Roberto Firmino was unable to feature for the Reds as he continues his recovery from a muscle issue, but Klopp was delighted at the reception the forward received as he nears the end of his Liverpool career. He responded with “I think so” when asked if he could feature this weekend.
4. European qualification: The manager admitted that he “didn’t believe” Champions League qualification was possible “six or seven weeks ago” after his side secured European football for next season with the win over Leicester. He insisted that Liverpool’s job is to “keep the pressure” on Man United and Newcastle.
5. Gakpo “eats football”: Klopp was full of praise for Cody Gakpo following his display at the King Power, saying that the forward is demonstrating maturity beyond his years with his recent performances. He said that Gakpo “eats football” and “enjoys” the position he is playing in, noting that he can play three or four positions in the system which is “super helpful”.