Jurgen Klopp was not in his usual jovial mood during today’s press-conference, ahead of Sunday’s Merseyside Derby.
The atmosphere was frosty and at times, even a little awkward, with Liverpool’s manager telling the reporters he’s got to know well at Melwood over the past three years that he didn’t appreciate their questions.
“In Paris I was not happy with the start. We have to set the intensity in a game,” he said.
“We conceded five [league] goals and you say our midfield is overrun? I don’t see that. No, I don’t see any problems in midfield.”
“Jordan is not available. What should I do? Ask the FA? I really do not understand a lot of your questions today. Yes, my players are ready but they have to prove it on Sunday.”
The main focus since the defeat in Paris has been on Liverpool’s midfield, which was yet again shoddy away from home.
As Klopp says, Henderson is suspended, so it’ll be interesting to see if the boss sticks with James Milner and Gini Wijnaldum – who were equally as poor as the captain.
We’d like to see at least one Naby Keita or Fabinho enter the fray, but in a match likely to be played at an extreme pace and intensity, we think the boss might go ‘safe’.
Everton are in very good form and will provide a much sterner test than they have at any other point during Jurgen Klopp’s reign.
They also have the benefit of more preparation, denied to Liverpool because of the Champions League.
But adrenaline should get any player worth his weight through a clash with Everton!