James McClean insists he has no interest in Jurgen Klopp’s opinion on the UEFA Nations League.
The Liverpool boss recently labelled the new international tournament as the ‘most senseless competition in the world’ to become the latest of many to pose questions over its futility.
Klopp was critical of the added competitive edge imposed by the tournament format compared to the use of simple friendlies in the past.
The international break has evidently become a inconvenient disruption for club managers, predominantly due the risk of injuries to key players.
Discussing Klopp’s comments, Irishman McClean told the Derry Journal: “We’re here to play for our country.”
“It doesn’t matter whether it’s a friendly, a UEFA Nations League (game) or a qualifier. It means something. It means everything – well, to me anyway.”
“I couldn’t care less what Jurgen Klopp says, to be honest. I’m here to represent Ireland and that means everything.”
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Liverpool handed timely fitness boost ahead of Huddersfield clash
Klopp saw 19 senior players depart on international duty this week following a gruelling month of fixtures in the Premier League, Champions League and League Cup.
The German is no stranger to welcoming back injured players, with Adam Lallana having been sidelined since withdrawing from the England squad with a groin injury at the beginning of September.
He is, however, set to return to action when Liverpool resume their title charge away to Hudderfield after the current break from domestic football.
Liverpool will particularly be hoping for some much-needed respite for a front three that looked tired during Sunday’s draw with Manchester City.