Sarcastic Klopp talks January centre-back signings…

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Jurgen Klopp has answered questions about his improving defence and the chances of us entering the market in January for a centre-back.

Liverpool’s backline has been consistently scrutinised this season, especially after failing to secure primary January transfer target Virgil van Dijk and letting in three on opening day at Watford.

Five goals at the Etihad and four at Wembley followed, but in recent weeks, the defence has actually been excellent.

Since that Spurs defeat, we’ve played 12 games, winning eight and drawing four. We’ve conceded seven goals, but three of those came in the second-half collapse at Sevilla – meaning we’ve let in just four in 11 & 1/2 matches.

Klopp’s answer about potential enforcements was mightily sarcastic, suggesting that our current form indicates he was right all along not to strengthen.

“It was something you all were talking about from the first day because we didn’t sign a centre-half in the summer. I had to learn that, that defensive problems can be because you don’t sign a player!” he told yesterday’s press-conference, cited in the Echo.

“Yes, we knew we could do better, but it was never an individual problem.

“All what we are doing has influence on what I think. But what does that mean – because we did so well defensively, you don’t want us to sign a defensive player? They will never stop (saying) that, until we do it, probably!”

The Independent says Virgil van Dijk remains a target, but with Manchester City favourites, FC Basel’s Manuel Akanji has been identified.

The Swiss 22-year-old has been superb in the Champions League, but indications are that we’d have to wait until the summer to secure him.

Perhaps with the current centre-backs doing so well, that’d be ok…?

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