Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he expects Manchester United to field a strong squad in Thursday's rearranged Premier League fixture despite the Old Trafford club's hectic schedule.

United travel to Aston Villa on Sunday before hosting Leicester City on Tuesday. The rearranged fixture with Liverpool, postponed last weekend following fan protests, has been scheduled for 48 hours later on Thursday.

United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said he may have no other option but to rotate his squad heavily because of the fixture pile-up.

But Klopp expects a tough test against United, who are second in the league on 67 points after 33 games, 10 points ahead of sixth-placed Liverpool who have played a game more.

"I expect a strong team against us," Klopp said after Saturday's 2-0 win over Southampton. "I think Man United has only good players.

"If I think about the players they could play, they have a really strong side available. Midfield, wow. Up front, all good players. They might be young but they are good.

"What they do in other games, we obviously have no influence but we would have played the strongest Manchester United side last Sunday and that's what we expect now."

Liverpool kept themselves in the hunt for a top-four finish after Sadio Mane and Thiago Alcantara scored in Saturday's win at Anfield.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he expects Manchester United to field a strong squad in Thursday's rearranged Premier League fixture despite the Old Trafford club's hectic schedule.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he expects Manchester United to field a strong squad in Thursday's rearranged Premier League fixture despite the Old Trafford club's hectic schedule. United travel to Aston Villa on Sunday before hosting Leicester City on Tuesday. The rearranged fixture with Liverpool, postponed last weekend following fan protests, has been scheduled for 48 hours later on Thursday. United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said he may have no other option but to rotate his squad heavily because of the fixture pile-up. But Klopp expects a tough test against United, who are second in the league on 67 points after 33 games, 10 points ahead of sixth-placed Liverpool who have played a game more. "I expect a strong team against us," Klopp said after Saturday's 2-0 win over Southampton. "I think Man United has only good players. "If I think about the players they could play, they have a really strong side available. Midfield, wow. Up front, all good players. They might be young but they are good. "What they do in other games, we obviously have no influence but we would have played the strongest Manchester United side last Sunday and that's what we expect now." Liverpool kept themselves in the hunt for a top-four finish after Sadio Mane and Thiago Alcantara scored in Saturday's win at Anfield.

Jurgen Klopp expects strong United squad in rearranged game despite fixture pile-up

Sadio Mane's first-half header and a late effort by Thiago earned Liverpool an unconvincing 2-0 win at home to Southampton on Saturday to keep Juergen Klopp's side in the hunt for a top-four finish in the Premier League.

Liverpool was far from their best, and keeper Alisson saved them on several occasions. But the win moved them into the sixth spot with 57 points from 34 games, six points behind fourth-placed Leicester City with a game in hand.

Mane got on the end of Mohamed Salah's flighted pass into the area in the 31st minute, seconds after Southampton's Che Adams had been denied an opener for the visitors.

The three points looked far from safe until Thiago buried a low shot into the corner in the 90th minute -- his first goal since joining Bayern Munich.

Southampton remains in 16th place and, while they are not mathematically safe from relegation, they look like hanging onto their top-flight status.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp described the victory as "very important" after successive draws.

"Top four&nbsp;is not impossible but it's difficult. We will give it a try and see where we get to," he said.

Manchester City's earlier defeat by Chelsea meant that, technically, Liverpool are still champions. But they continue to look nothing like the marauding machine that took them to the title last season in such a dominant fashion.

Southampton keeper Fraser Forster was kept busy with saves from Diogo Jota and Salah early on but Liverpool looked uneasy whenever Southampton attacked and were lucky not to fall behind.

Nathan Teller found himself in acres of space down the right flank and surged forward before crossing low for Adams who looked certain to score before Alisson smothered his shot.

Liverpool made the most of that let-off a minute later when Salah hoisted the ball into the box and Mane headed in.

Tella wasted a chance to equalize before halftime when he headed straight at Alisson, while Adams had the ball in the net only for his effort to be disallowed for a foul.

Jota forced a sharp save by Forster after halftime while at the other end Alisson was fortunate when he cleared the ball straight to Adams, whose shot allowed the keeper to recover.

Mane had a goal disallowed but Thiago settled the issue when he threaded a shot into the corner.

"It is an amazing feeling to score&nbsp;but the most important thing is the three points. We keep fighting for a small miracle," Thiago said of Liverpool's top-four hopes.

"The window is open so we try to go through the window."

Sadio Mane's first-half header and a late effort by Thiago earned Liverpool an unconvincing 2-0 win at home to Southampton on Saturday to keep Juergen Klopp's side in the hunt for a top-four finish in the Premier League.

Sadio Mane's first-half header and a late effort by Thiago earned Liverpool an unconvincing 2-0 win at home to Southampton on Saturday to keep Juergen Klopp's side in the hunt for a top-four finish in the Premier League. Liverpool was far from their best, and keeper Alisson saved them on several occasions. But the win moved them into the sixth spot with 57 points from 34 games, six points behind fourth-placed Leicester City with a game in hand. Mane got on the end of Mohamed Salah's flighted pass into the area in the 31st minute, seconds after Southampton's Che Adams had been denied an opener for the visitors. The three points looked far from safe until Thiago buried a low shot into the corner in the 90th minute -- his first goal since joining Bayern Munich. Southampton remains in 16th place and, while they are not mathematically safe from relegation, they look like hanging onto their top-flight status. Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp described the victory as "very important" after successive draws. "Top four is not impossible but it's difficult. We will give it a try and see where we get to," he said. Manchester City's earlier defeat by Chelsea meant that, technically, Liverpool are still champions. But they continue to look nothing like the marauding machine that took them to the title last season in such a dominant fashion. Southampton keeper Fraser Forster was kept busy with saves from Diogo Jota and Salah early on but Liverpool looked uneasy whenever Southampton attacked and were lucky not to fall behind. Nathan Teller found himself in acres of space down the right flank and surged forward before crossing low for Adams who looked certain to score before Alisson smothered his shot. Liverpool made the most of that let-off a minute later when Salah hoisted the ball into the box and Mane headed in. Tella wasted a chance to equalize before halftime when he headed straight at Alisson, while Adams had the ball in the net only for his effort to be disallowed for a foul. Jota forced a sharp save by Forster after halftime while at the other end Alisson was fortunate when he cleared the ball straight to Adams, whose shot allowed the keeper to recover. Mane had a goal disallowed but Thiago settled the issue when he threaded a shot into the corner. "It is an amazing feeling to score but the most important thing is the three points. We keep fighting for a small miracle," Thiago said of Liverpool's top-four hopes. "The window is open so we try to go through the window."

Sadio Mane seals win for Liverpool to keep top-four hopes alive

Burnley will allow up to 3,500 fans inside Turf Moor for their final Premier League home game of the season against Liverpool, with tickets offered free of charge, the club said on Friday.

Home supporters will be awarded free tickets for the match on May 19 via an online ballot made up of season ticket holders.

Matches in England's top-flight have taken place behind closed doors since June, apart from a brief window late last year when small crowds were allowed before a resurgence of COVID-19 cases.

But supporters will return, in a limited capacity, after May 17 in line with the government's plan to ease lockdown restrictions in England.

"This fixture is an opportunity to reward our loyal season ticket holders who have shown incredible support to the club throughout the pandemic," Burnley chairman Alan Pace said in a statement https://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/content/ticket-ballot-burnley-v-liverpool.

"We have therefore decided to make tickets for this fixture free of charge.

"If supporters are able to, the club is encouraging successful applications in the ballot to consider making a donation to the NHS charities."

Fans will be asked to go straight to their allocated seats and wear face masks throughout their time in the stadium. Staggered exit times will also be in place after the match.

Burnley will allow up to 3,500 fans inside Turf Moor for their final Premier League home game of the season against Liverpool, with tickets offered free of charge, the club said on Friday.

Burnley will allow up to 3,500 fans inside Turf Moor for their final Premier League home game of the season against Liverpool, with tickets offered free of charge, the club said on Friday. Home supporters will be awarded free tickets for the match on May 19 via an online ballot made up of season ticket holders. Matches in England's top-flight have taken place behind closed doors since June, apart from a brief window late last year when small crowds were allowed before a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. But supporters will return, in a limited capacity, after May 17 in line with the government's plan to ease lockdown restrictions in England. "This fixture is an opportunity to reward our loyal season ticket holders who have shown incredible support to the club throughout the pandemic," Burnley chairman Alan Pace said in a statement https://www.burnleyfootballclub.com/content/ticket-ballot-burnley-v-liverpool. "We have therefore decided to make tickets for this fixture free of charge. "If supporters are able to, the club is encouraging successful applications in the ballot to consider making a donation to the NHS charities." Fans will be asked to go straight to their allocated seats and wear face masks throughout their time in the stadium. Staggered exit times will also be in place after the match.

Burnley offer free entry to home fans for Liverpool clash

These are times when a positive change is taking over the world and one such example is of Liverpool which has collectively elected its first-ever Black female mayor.

Joanne Anderson, a 50-year-old, became the first woman and first Black female mayor to lead the city by winning 59 per cent (46,493) of the total votes against her opponent Stephen Yip.

The six-foot-tall, Labour member promised the take the city on a "restorative path" and assured that Liverpool will have "the best accountability and transparency structures in the country".

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The first black woman to be directly-elected Mayor in the UK, and the first female Mayor of Liverpool. 
 
History made 🌹 <a href="https://t.co/7WyNI01OCb">pic.twitter.com/7WyNI01OCb</a>
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She also apologised to the locals of Liverpool for the ‘political scandal’ that had shaken the city in December after the former mayor was arrested over corruption claims, which he denies.

She also acknowledged her record of being the first female and Black mayor and thanked the city locals for helping her achieve it. "Liverpool has always been a city of firsts – one that does things differently and that charters its own path. Today, we made history," she said.

Anderson also opened up about how she had not ever intended to enter the world of politics or contest for Mayor. "It hasn’t been a lifelong ambition, but I could see our city was in peril," she explained.

Sharing her experiences of bankruptcy she promised to bring the city out of the financial crisis caused due to the coronavirus pandemic. She also assured to continue raising her voice for violence against women and girls and promote equality and diversity in the city.

However, she has also announced her support for the campaign of scrapping mayoralty, for which a referendum will be held in 2023 on the continuation of the role.

These are times when a positive change is taking over the world and one such example is of Liverpool which has collectively elected its first-ever Black female mayor.

These are times when a positive change is taking over the world and one such example is of Liverpool which has collectively elected its first-ever Black female mayor. Joanne Anderson, a 50-year-old, became the first woman and first Black female mayor to lead the city by winning 59 per cent (46,493) of the total votes against her opponent Stephen Yip. The six-foot-tall, Labour member promised the take the city on a "restorative path" and assured that Liverpool will have "the best accountability and transparency structures in the country". The first black woman to be directly-elected Mayor in the UK, and the first female Mayor of Liverpool. History made 🌹 pic.twitter.com/7WyNI01OCb — Joanne Anderson (@Joanne4Mayor) May 7, 2021 × She also apologised to the locals of Liverpool for the ‘political scandal’ that had shaken the city in December after the former mayor was arrested over corruption claims, which he denies. She also acknowledged her record of being the first female and Black mayor and thanked the city locals for helping her achieve it. "Liverpool has always been a city of firsts – one that does things differently and that charters its own path. Today, we made history," she said. Anderson also opened up about how she had not ever intended to enter the world of politics or contest for Mayor. "It hasn’t been a lifelong ambition, but I could see our city was in peril," she explained. Sharing her experiences of bankruptcy she promised to bring the city out of the financial crisis caused due to the coronavirus pandemic. She also assured to continue raising her voice for violence against women and girls and promote equality and diversity in the city. However, she has also announced her support for the campaign of scrapping mayoralty, for which a referendum will be held in 2023 on the continuation of the role.

'City of firsts': Liverpool elects first ever black female mayor

Violence during Sunday's protests from Manchester United fans, which led to the Premier League game with Liverpool being postponed, has been condemned by the UK government's sports minister and the mayor of Greater Manchester.

United fans protesting against the club's American owners, the Glazer family, stormed into the stadium which was closed to fans due to COVID-19 restrictions.

A flare was thrown at the broadcasters podium as fans ran onto the field and protesters clashed with police outside the ground.

Greater Manchester Police&nbsp;said two officers were injured with one requiring hospital treatment after he was attacked with a bottle and suffered a slash wound to his face.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thousands-of-manchester-united-fans-break-into-old-trafford-ahead-of-liverpool-clash-382299" hreflang="en">Thousands of Manchester United fans break into Old Trafford ahead of Liverpool clash!</a>

"Passions are running high in&nbsp;football&nbsp;but there are ways to protest and make your voice heard without hurting or endangering others," said Nigel Huddleston, Minister for Tourism and Sport.

"We understand the frustrations, but the violence by a small minority of fans at Old Trafford yesterday was unacceptable," he said.

The fan protests against the Glazers, which have been taken place since they bought the club in 2005, have been reignited since United's involvement in the attempt to create a breakaway European Super League. [L1N2MP0FH]

Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham expressed support for the aims of the protesters but criticized the violence.

"I fully understand the long-standing concerns of Manchester United supporters about both the ownership and financing of their club and the wider running of&nbsp;football," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-uniteds-american-owners-facing-strongest-opposition-yet-382438" hreflang="en">Manchester United's American owners facing strongest opposition yet</a>

"It is important to make clear that the majority of supporters made their protest peacefully...however, there is no excuse for the actions of a minority who injured police officers and endangered the safety of others," he added.

British foreign office minister James Cleverly said there was a need to understand the mood of&nbsp;football&nbsp;supporters.

"(We) cannot, cannot condone the images that we've seen about storming the ground," Cleverly told Sky News. "But we do need to understand the frustrations that fans have not just with Manchester United, but with a number of clubs across the game."

GMP Assistant Chief Constable Russ Jackson said the behavior of the fans was "reckless and dangerous".&nbsp;

&nbsp; "We have launched an investigation and we will be working closely alongside partners to ensure we establish the full circumstances surrounding today's events and prosecute those responsibly," he said.

No decision has yet been made on the rescheduling of the match or about any sanctions for Sunday's events.

Violence during Sunday's protests from Manchester United fans, which led to the Premier League game with Liverpool being postponed, has been condemned by the UK government's sports minister and the mayor of Greater Manchester.

Violence during Sunday's protests from Manchester United fans, which led to the Premier League game with Liverpool being postponed, has been condemned by the UK government's sports minister and the mayor of Greater Manchester. United fans protesting against the club's American owners, the Glazer family, stormed into the stadium which was closed to fans due to COVID-19 restrictions. A flare was thrown at the broadcasters podium as fans ran onto the field and protesters clashed with police outside the ground. Greater Manchester Police said two officers were injured with one requiring hospital treatment after he was attacked with a bottle and suffered a slash wound to his face. IN PICS | Thousands of Manchester United fans break into Old Trafford ahead of Liverpool clash! "Passions are running high in football but there are ways to protest and make your voice heard without hurting or endangering others," said Nigel Huddleston, Minister for Tourism and Sport. "We understand the frustrations, but the violence by a small minority of fans at Old Trafford yesterday was unacceptable," he said. The fan protests against the Glazers, which have been taken place since they bought the club in 2005, have been reignited since United's involvement in the attempt to create a breakaway European Super League. [L1N2MP0FH] Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham expressed support for the aims of the protesters but criticized the violence. "I fully understand the long-standing concerns of Manchester United supporters about both the ownership and financing of their club and the wider running of football," he said. ALSO READ: Manchester United's American owners facing strongest opposition yet "It is important to make clear that the majority of supporters made their protest peacefully...however, there is no excuse for the actions of a minority who injured police officers and endangered the safety of others," he added. British foreign office minister James Cleverly said there was a need to understand the mood of football supporters. "(We) cannot, cannot condone the images that we've seen about storming the ground," Cleverly told Sky News. "But we do need to understand the frustrations that fans have not just with Manchester United, but with a number of clubs across the game." GMP Assistant Chief Constable Russ Jackson said the behavior of the fans was "reckless and dangerous". "We have launched an investigation and we will be working closely alongside partners to ensure we establish the full circumstances surrounding today's events and prosecute those responsibly," he said. No decision has yet been made on the rescheduling of the match or about any sanctions for Sunday's events.

Manchester United fan violence condemned by government and mayor

Liverpool's visit to Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday promises to be a tasty encounter as both teams desperately need three points to achieve their end-of-season goals, manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday.

United must win to keep the title race alive if league leaders Manchester City beat Crystal Palace a day earlier while Klopp's sixth-placed Liverpool are four points below the fourth and final Champions League spot.

Klopp has never won at Old Trafford in six attempts in all competitions and a Liverpool victory could hand City the title.

"Strange things can happen in&nbsp;football. Both teams have to win it, so it's a recipe for a good game," Klopp told reporters.

"Without winning games, we have no chance of having European&nbsp;football. If the others (above us) win, it doesn't change anything for us. But for us it's clear, we have to win.

"It's a tough, tense game for both teams. Man United are good, especially last night after the halftime talk they were really flying," Klopp added, referring to United's 6-2 win over AS Roma in the Europa League semi-final, first leg.

Klopp said the match could be tougher for United due to their Europa League commitments.

"When you play Thursday and Sunday again, it's a tough challenge. Yes, United are used to it but that doesn't make it easier," Klopp added.

"Today is a recovery day todat, a second recovery day&nbsp;and then they play. No chance to change things, but I don't think they want to really at the moment."

Liverpool faces the prospect of not playing Champions League&nbsp;football&nbsp;next season if they do not finish in the top four but Klopp said missing out will not impact their transfer business or players' contract negotiations.

"Playing the Champions League is obviously massive, especially from a financial point of view for the club. It's not good if we don't make it," the German said.

"But no, I don't think it will change anything because the situation was difficult before and will be difficult after."

Liverpool's visit to Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday promises to be a tasty encounter as both teams desperately need three points to achieve their end-of-season goals, manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday.

Liverpool's visit to Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday promises to be a tasty encounter as both teams desperately need three points to achieve their end-of-season goals, manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday. United must win to keep the title race alive if league leaders Manchester City beat Crystal Palace a day earlier while Klopp's sixth-placed Liverpool are four points below the fourth and final Champions League spot. Klopp has never won at Old Trafford in six attempts in all competitions and a Liverpool victory could hand City the title. "Strange things can happen in football. Both teams have to win it, so it's a recipe for a good game," Klopp told reporters. "Without winning games, we have no chance of having European football. If the others (above us) win, it doesn't change anything for us. But for us it's clear, we have to win. "It's a tough, tense game for both teams. Man United are good, especially last night after the halftime talk they were really flying," Klopp added, referring to United's 6-2 win over AS Roma in the Europa League semi-final, first leg. Klopp said the match could be tougher for United due to their Europa League commitments. "When you play Thursday and Sunday again, it's a tough challenge. Yes, United are used to it but that doesn't make it easier," Klopp added. "Today is a recovery day todat, a second recovery day and then they play. No chance to change things, but I don't think they want to really at the moment." Liverpool faces the prospect of not playing Champions League football next season if they do not finish in the top four but Klopp said missing out will not impact their transfer business or players' contract negotiations. "Playing the Champions League is obviously massive, especially from a financial point of view for the club. It's not good if we don't make it," the German said. "But no, I don't think it will change anything because the situation was difficult before and will be difficult after."

High stakes add spice to Liverpool's trip to Manchester United, says Jürgen Klopp

Manchester City are closing in on their third English Premier League title in four years and Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he does not expect them to take their foot off the gas next season. 
 
A dominant Liverpool cruised to the league title last season, but City will this weekend reclaim the crown they lost to Klopp`s side if they defeat Crystal Palace later on Saturday and Liverpool beat second-placed Manchester United on Sunday. 
 
Klopp`s sixth-placed Liverpool have struggled due to injuries and a dip in form and are in a battle to finish in the top four, thereby securing Champions League qualification. 
 
"It always becomes harder because Manchester City never stop. That`s clear. They didn`t stop and they`ll not stop," Klopp told a news conference on Friday. 
 
"Two years in a row they had us on their necks. OK, for one year we were ahead of them, but we never expected that to happen for the next 10 years in a row." 
 
Klopp said Liverpool`s title challenge next season could get tougher with more teams challenging at the top. 
 
"Now Manchester United are coming up. Chelsea are obviously in a brilliant place, a top squad ... you can see they`re really good so it`ll not get easier," Klopp said. 
 
"There will be other teams for sure. Like Leicester City - brilliant manager and a top squad dealing with different situations. 
 
"Nobody should write off Tottenham Hotspur or Arsenal. Obviously West Ham United are now flying. How can it be easier? The good thing about Manchester City is that you only meet them twice a season." 
 
Klopp stressed that his immediate focus was on Manchester United and winning their remaining games this season. 
 
"We`ll give our absolute everything again next year but for now we`re concentrating on Sunday," Klopp said.

Manchester City are closing in on their third English Premier League title in four years and Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he does not expect them to take their foot off the gas next season.

Manchester City are closing in on their third English Premier League title in four years and Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he does not expect them to take their foot off the gas next season. A dominant Liverpool cruised to the league title last season, but City will this weekend reclaim the crown they lost to Klopp`s side if they defeat Crystal Palace later on Saturday and Liverpool beat second-placed Manchester United on Sunday. Klopp`s sixth-placed Liverpool have struggled due to injuries and a dip in form and are in a battle to finish in the top four, thereby securing Champions League qualification. "It always becomes harder because Manchester City never stop. That`s clear. They didn`t stop and they`ll not stop," Klopp told a news conference on Friday. "Two years in a row they had us on their necks. OK, for one year we were ahead of them, but we never expected that to happen for the next 10 years in a row." Klopp said Liverpool`s title challenge next season could get tougher with more teams challenging at the top. "Now Manchester United are coming up. Chelsea are obviously in a brilliant place, a top squad ... you can see they`re really good so it`ll not get easier," Klopp said. "There will be other teams for sure. Like Leicester City - brilliant manager and a top squad dealing with different situations. "Nobody should write off Tottenham Hotspur or Arsenal. Obviously West Ham United are now flying. How can it be easier? The good thing about Manchester City is that you only meet them twice a season." Klopp stressed that his immediate focus was on Manchester United and winning their remaining games this season. "We`ll give our absolute everything again next year but for now we`re concentrating on Sunday," Klopp said.

Liverpool's Klopp says teams will find it harder to stop Manchester City

Newcastle United substitute Joe Willock equalised in the dying seconds of stoppage time to earn his side a precious point in a 1-1 draw away at Liverpool on Saturday that dented the home side`s Champions League qualification hopes. 
 
Liverpool had opened the scoring at Anfield inside three minutes when Newcastle defender Ciaran Clark failed to clear a cross, allowing forward Mohamed Salah to control the ball and fire a left-footed half-volley into the roof of the net. 
 
But despite dominating the ball possession and making 22 attempts on goal, Liverpool failed to extend their advantage. 
 
Newcastle forward Callum Wilson had a strike ruled out for offside in the 90th minute but Steve Bruce`s side continued to pile on the pressure. 
 
They were rewarded in the 95th minute when Willock found the net for the third league match in a row with virtually the last kick of the match. 
 
"We pushed hard in the second half. Apart from the sloppy goal we gave away, I thought the boys did really well," Willock, who is on loan from Arsenal, told BT Sport. 
 
"Hopefully, it is more the performance we need to keep up. I don`t feel like we were showing what we can earlier. What we are showing now is brilliant, and if we continue like that we will be safe for sure." 
 
The result left Liverpool in sixth place, one point behind both top-four rivals West Ham United and Chelsea who meet at the London Stadium later in the day. 
 
Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara said the team must show hunger to deserve a place in next season`s Champions League. 
 
"We have no words to explain the disappointment we have," he said. "We had a lot of chances to win in the first half. 
 
"It doesn`t change that we want to win and want to be in the Champions League but for that we have to deserve to be there." 
 
Newcastle stay 15th in the table but they are now nine points clear of the relegation zone.

Newcastle United substitute Joe Willock equalised in the dying seconds of stoppage time to earn his side a precious point in a 1-1 draw away at Liverpool on Saturday that dented the home side`s Champions League qualification hopes.

Newcastle United substitute Joe Willock equalised in the dying seconds of stoppage time to earn his side a precious point in a 1-1 draw away at Liverpool on Saturday that dented the home side`s Champions League qualification hopes. Liverpool had opened the scoring at Anfield inside three minutes when Newcastle defender Ciaran Clark failed to clear a cross, allowing forward Mohamed Salah to control the ball and fire a left-footed half-volley into the roof of the net. But despite dominating the ball possession and making 22 attempts on goal, Liverpool failed to extend their advantage. Newcastle forward Callum Wilson had a strike ruled out for offside in the 90th minute but Steve Bruce`s side continued to pile on the pressure. They were rewarded in the 95th minute when Willock found the net for the third league match in a row with virtually the last kick of the match. "We pushed hard in the second half. Apart from the sloppy goal we gave away, I thought the boys did really well," Willock, who is on loan from Arsenal, told BT Sport. "Hopefully, it is more the performance we need to keep up. I don`t feel like we were showing what we can earlier. What we are showing now is brilliant, and if we continue like that we will be safe for sure." The result left Liverpool in sixth place, one point behind both top-four rivals West Ham United and Chelsea who meet at the London Stadium later in the day. Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara said the team must show hunger to deserve a place in next season`s Champions League. "We have no words to explain the disappointment we have," he said. "We had a lot of chances to win in the first half. "It doesn`t change that we want to win and want to be in the Champions League but for that we have to deserve to be there." Newcastle stay 15th in the table but they are now nine points clear of the relegation zone.

Late Willock strike earns Newcastle 1-1 draw against wasteful Liverpool

Liverpool midfielder James Milner said on Monday he hopes a European Super League (ESL) does not happen despite his club being one of 12 teams to sign up to a breakaway.

The English champions have teamed up with Premier League rivals Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal for the proposed 20-team competition.

Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan are the other founder members of the plan.

However, speaking after Liverpool's 1-1 draw at Leeds in the Premier League, Milner joined governments, governing bodies, fans and other players to criticise the proposals.

"There is a lot of questions. I can only say my personal opinion, I don't like it and hopefully it doesn't happen," said Milner, who was Liverpool skipper for the fixture in the absence of the injured Jordan Henderson.

Fans from both clubs protested outside Elland Road before kick-off with the plans fiercely criticised by supporters' groups as a cynical attempt by club owners to make more money.

"For the same reasons everyone else has been talking about it," added Milner on why he was against the plans.

"It's been difficult, we've had a game we're trying to prepare for, but I can only imagine what has been said and agree with most of it.

"Players obviously have no say, so the welcome we got to the ground tonight felt a bit unjust. We are here to play football and have no control over it."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he was also not consulted by the club's American owners and criticised plans for the competition's proposed format.

Under the proposals, 15 founder members would compete in tournament every year without having to qualify.

Liverpool are in danger of failing to qualify for next season's Champions League as they sit sixth in the Premier League, behind Leicester and West Ham, two clubs excluded from the plans.

"One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness, I get that," Klopp told Sky Sports.

"I like the fact that West Ham might play Champions League next year. I don't want them to, because I want us to be there, but I like that they have the chance."

Klopp was previously quoted as saying "I hope this Super League will never happen" and questioned whether fans' interest would be maintained by watching Liverpool face the likes of Real Madrid every year.

In 2019, the German said: "For me, the Champions League is the Super League, in which you do not always end up playing against the same teams.

"Why should we create a system where Liverpool faces Real Madrid for 10 straight years? Who wants to see that every year?"

Klopp admitted his preparation for Monday's game had been disturbed by the news breaking late on Sunday.

But he said he would not resign over the plans.

"My opinion didn't change," he said when asked about his previous comments on a Super League.

"I am here as a football coach and a manager. I will do that as long as people let me do that.

"I feel responsible for the team, for the club and for the relationship we have with our fans. It's a very tough time I'm sure, but I will try to help to sort it somehow."

Liverpool could face sanctions from the Premier League for being involved in the breakaway, while players face the possibility of being banned from representing their national teams.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin described the breakaway as a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed".

Liverpool midfielder James Milner said on Monday he hopes a European Super League (ESL) does not happen despite his club being one of 12 teams to sign up to a breakaway.

Liverpool midfielder James Milner said on Monday he hopes a European Super League (ESL) does not happen despite his club being one of 12 teams to sign up to a breakaway. The English champions have teamed up with Premier League rivals Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal for the proposed 20-team competition. Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan are the other founder members of the plan. However, speaking after Liverpool's 1-1 draw at Leeds in the Premier League, Milner joined governments, governing bodies, fans and other players to criticise the proposals. "There is a lot of questions. I can only say my personal opinion, I don't like it and hopefully it doesn't happen," said Milner, who was Liverpool skipper for the fixture in the absence of the injured Jordan Henderson. Fans from both clubs protested outside Elland Road before kick-off with the plans fiercely criticised by supporters' groups as a cynical attempt by club owners to make more money. "For the same reasons everyone else has been talking about it," added Milner on why he was against the plans. "It's been difficult, we've had a game we're trying to prepare for, but I can only imagine what has been said and agree with most of it. "Players obviously have no say, so the welcome we got to the ground tonight felt a bit unjust. We are here to play football and have no control over it." Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he was also not consulted by the club's American owners and criticised plans for the competition's proposed format. Under the proposals, 15 founder members would compete in tournament every year without having to qualify. Liverpool are in danger of failing to qualify for next season's Champions League as they sit sixth in the Premier League, behind Leicester and West Ham, two clubs excluded from the plans. "One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness, I get that," Klopp told Sky Sports. "I like the fact that West Ham might play Champions League next year. I don't want them to, because I want us to be there, but I like that they have the chance." Klopp was previously quoted as saying "I hope this Super League will never happen" and questioned whether fans' interest would be maintained by watching Liverpool face the likes of Real Madrid every year. In 2019, the German said: "For me, the Champions League is the Super League, in which you do not always end up playing against the same teams. "Why should we create a system where Liverpool faces Real Madrid for 10 straight years? Who wants to see that every year?" Klopp admitted his preparation for Monday's game had been disturbed by the news breaking late on Sunday. But he said he would not resign over the plans. "My opinion didn't change," he said when asked about his previous comments on a Super League. "I am here as a football coach and a manager. I will do that as long as people let me do that. "I feel responsible for the team, for the club and for the relationship we have with our fans. It's a very tough time I'm sure, but I will try to help to sort it somehow." Liverpool could face sanctions from the Premier League for being involved in the breakaway, while players face the possibility of being banned from representing their national teams. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin described the breakaway as a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed".

'Hopefully it doesn't happen' - Liverpool captain Milner against Super League

Liverpool were held to a 1-1 draw away to Leeds United on Monday in a match overshadowed by the furious response to the Merseysiders' planned involvement in a breakaway European Super League (ESL).

A draw left sixth-placed Liverpool two points adrift of fourth-placed West Ham in the Premier League.

The Reds opened the scoring before the interval through Sadio Mane only for Diego Llorente to equalise with his first Leeds goal, a header from a corner, three minutes from time.

The top four in the Premier League come the end of the season are usually the four English clubs guaranteed a place in next term's UEFA Champions League.

But even if six-times European champions Liverpool finish in the top four, they may well be banned from the tournament given they are on a collision course with UEFA, the continent's football governing body, after emerging as one of 12 teams who have established plans to form the ESL.

Under the proposals, 15 founder members would compete in the 20-team tournament every year without having to qualify.

Supporters from both Leeds and Liverpool protested outside Elland Road prior to kick-off, while a banner in the stand said: "Earn it on the pitch. Football is for the fans."

Leeds players also wore T-shirts before the game carrying similar messages, while a plane flew overhead trailing the message "#SayNoToSuperLeague".

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who had previously spoken out against the creation of a Super League, struggled to justify the his club's participation in the proposed new competition during a pre-match interview with Sky Sports.

"One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness, I get that," he said.

Significantly, no clubs from Klopp's native Germany are involved, with European giants Bayern Munich making clear Monday they were happy with football's "current structure".

Klopp appeared to have more in common with Bayern than his own employers when he added: "I like the fact that West Ham might play Champions League next year. I don't want them to, because I want us to be there, but I like that they have the chance."

Six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid and Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the competition.

Their plans sparked an angry reaction from governments, governing bodies, players and fans alike.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin slammed the plan, calling it a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed".

Meanwhile the UK government's culture secretary, Oliver Dowden, said the English clubs involved could find themselves subject to a formal review under British anti-trust law, which prevents the formation of monopolies or corporate cartels.&nbsp;

"We will put everything on the table to prevent this from happening," Dowden said,&nbsp;promising a "very robust response".

At Elland Road, Klopp recalled Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota, with star striker Mohamed Salah on the bench.

Jota was involved as Liverpool broke the deadlock in the 31st minute, picking out the run of Trent Alexander-Arnold before the full-back volleyed a first-time ball across the edge of the box for Mane to ease into Leeds' net.

Only a superb block from Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson denied Patrick Bamford but Leeds had their equaliser when Llorente headed in Jack Harrison's in-swinging corner in the 87th minute.&nbsp;

Liverpool were held to a 1-1 draw away to Leeds United on Monday in a match overshadowed by the furious response to the Merseysiders' planned involvement in a breakaway European Super League (ESL).

Liverpool were held to a 1-1 draw away to Leeds United on Monday in a match overshadowed by the furious response to the Merseysiders' planned involvement in a breakaway European Super League (ESL). A draw left sixth-placed Liverpool two points adrift of fourth-placed West Ham in the Premier League. The Reds opened the scoring before the interval through Sadio Mane only for Diego Llorente to equalise with his first Leeds goal, a header from a corner, three minutes from time. The top four in the Premier League come the end of the season are usually the four English clubs guaranteed a place in next term's UEFA Champions League. But even if six-times European champions Liverpool finish in the top four, they may well be banned from the tournament given they are on a collision course with UEFA, the continent's football governing body, after emerging as one of 12 teams who have established plans to form the ESL. Under the proposals, 15 founder members would compete in the 20-team tournament every year without having to qualify. Supporters from both Leeds and Liverpool protested outside Elland Road prior to kick-off, while a banner in the stand said: "Earn it on the pitch. Football is for the fans." Leeds players also wore T-shirts before the game carrying similar messages, while a plane flew overhead trailing the message "#SayNoToSuperLeague". Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who had previously spoken out against the creation of a Super League, struggled to justify the his club's participation in the proposed new competition during a pre-match interview with Sky Sports. "One thing I understand and that people think is not right is the competitiveness, I get that," he said. Significantly, no clubs from Klopp's native Germany are involved, with European giants Bayern Munich making clear Monday they were happy with football's "current structure". Klopp appeared to have more in common with Bayern than his own employers when he added: "I like the fact that West Ham might play Champions League next year. I don't want them to, because I want us to be there, but I like that they have the chance." Six Premier League teams -- Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur -- joined forces with Spanish giants Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid and Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and AC Milan to launch the competition. Their plans sparked an angry reaction from governments, governing bodies, players and fans alike. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin slammed the plan, calling it a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed". Meanwhile the UK government's culture secretary, Oliver Dowden, said the English clubs involved could find themselves subject to a formal review under British anti-trust law, which prevents the formation of monopolies or corporate cartels. "We will put everything on the table to prevent this from happening," Dowden said, promising a "very robust response". At Elland Road, Klopp recalled Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota, with star striker Mohamed Salah on the bench. Jota was involved as Liverpool broke the deadlock in the 31st minute, picking out the run of Trent Alexander-Arnold before the full-back volleyed a first-time ball across the edge of the box for Mane to ease into Leeds' net. Only a superb block from Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson denied Patrick Bamford but Leeds had their equaliser when Llorente headed in Jack Harrison's in-swinging corner in the 87th minute.

Liverpool and Leeds share spoils amid Super League protests

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he hopes the team can carry the confidence from Saturday's 2-1 Premier League win over Aston Villa into Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final encounter against Real Madrid, where they will need to be "perfect."

Defender Trent Alexander-Arnold scored a stoppage-time winner as champions Liverpool fought back to beat Villa and end a dismal run of six league defeats at their Anfield home.

They have work to do to reach the semi-finals of Europe's elite club competition after losing 3-1 at Real in the first leg of their quarter-final last week, but Klopp backed his side to build on the performance against Villa.

"Whatever we can... we'll take. That's clear. We need a perfect performance on Wednesday if we want to have a chance only - just for a chance," Klopp told reporters.

"I think the way we played and the way Real played there, it doesn't look promising but the good thing is we can play better. That would change the game already, but we have to.

"Real don't come here and think they're already through. It'll be a tough one, but we'll give it a try I can promise - and that's the only thing we can say."

Klopp said that Liverpool's third straight league victory could reinvigorate the team.

"When you're in a moment, when you win every game... you don't feel the intensity - you want to play the next game. You could play the next game the next day," Klopp said.

"Obviously, for us in the moment it's not that easy and we have to work really hard, we need to have five or 10 chances to score a goal.

"A very important three points (against Villa) and whatever it will give us for Wednesday, we will use."

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he hopes the team can carry the confidence from Saturday's 2-1 Premier League win over Aston Villa into Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final encounter against Real Madrid, where they will need to be "perfect.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he hopes the team can carry the confidence from Saturday's 2-1 Premier League win over Aston Villa into Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final encounter against Real Madrid, where they will need to be "perfect." Defender Trent Alexander-Arnold scored a stoppage-time winner as champions Liverpool fought back to beat Villa and end a dismal run of six league defeats at their Anfield home. They have work to do to reach the semi-finals of Europe's elite club competition after losing 3-1 at Real in the first leg of their quarter-final last week, but Klopp backed his side to build on the performance against Villa. "Whatever we can... we'll take. That's clear. We need a perfect performance on Wednesday if we want to have a chance only - just for a chance," Klopp told reporters. "I think the way we played and the way Real played there, it doesn't look promising but the good thing is we can play better. That would change the game already, but we have to. "Real don't come here and think they're already through. It'll be a tough one, but we'll give it a try I can promise - and that's the only thing we can say." Klopp said that Liverpool's third straight league victory could reinvigorate the team. "When you're in a moment, when you win every game... you don't feel the intensity - you want to play the next game. You could play the next game the next day," Klopp said. "Obviously, for us in the moment it's not that easy and we have to work really hard, we need to have five or 10 chances to score a goal. "A very important three points (against Villa) and whatever it will give us for Wednesday, we will use."

Klopp says win over Villa can boost Liverpool ahead of Real test

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he is not seeking revenge on Real Madrid for defeat in the 2018 Champions League final despite his anger at Sergio Ramos for the challenge which ended Mohamed Salah's match that night in Kiev.

Salah, who scored 44 goals in a remarkable debut campaign with Liverpool in 2017/18, suffered a dislocated shoulder after being hauled to the ground by Ramos midway through the first-half.

Madrid went onto win a third consecutive European Cup thanks to two errors from Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius and a wonderful overhead kick from Gareth Bale.

The sides meet for the first time since that clash on Tuesday for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in the Spanish capital.

"I said at the time, if you asked me in a press conference a week or month later, if I would invite Sergio Ramos to my 60th birthday? I would have said no," said Klopp.

"I said I didn't like what happened that night. It was for us a strange night, but it was long ago.

"We cannot get that feeling back or that anger or whatever so I don't even try. What I try is to prepare my team for tomorrow to show we are a good football team."

Liverpool bounced back in style to win the Champions League in 2019 before ending a 30-year wait to be crowned English champions last season.

But the Reds have struggled to match those standards this season in an injury-ravaged campaign.

Klopp's men face a battle just to qualify for next season's Champions League via a top-four finish in the Premier League.

"It was a different time, we were in a different place. Since then a lot of things happened. We feel good in our situation but we know we face a difficult opponent," added Klopp on how both sides have evolved over the past three years.

"I heard from the outside, already everybody says Real Madrid is the favourite. Great, they are used to the role and we have no problem being the challenger."

Real's victory in Kiev was the final match of Zinedine Zidane's first spell in charge of the Spanish giants.

The Frenchman returned for his second stint in 2019, but despite winning La Liga in his first full season back in charge last year, finds himself under pressure once more with Madrid involved in a tight three-way battle for the Spanish title with rivals Barcelona and Atletico Madrid.

Klopp was asked if he would ever fancy swapping Merseyside for Madrid, but said he is more interested in the Mallorcan sun if he ever moved to Spain.

"When we came out the plane today I already regret that we don't live here because the weather is so much better here," he said.&nbsp;

"My Spanish is really bad. You would not enjoy having me in Spain and I speak always this broken Spanish. All the clubs here have great managers. Real Mallorca would be nice, to live at least."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he is not seeking revenge on Real Madrid for defeat in the 2018 Champions League final despite his anger at Sergio Ramos for the challenge which ended Mohamed Salah's match that night in Kiev.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said he is not seeking revenge on Real Madrid for defeat in the 2018 Champions League final despite his anger at Sergio Ramos for the challenge which ended Mohamed Salah's match that night in Kiev. Salah, who scored 44 goals in a remarkable debut campaign with Liverpool in 2017/18, suffered a dislocated shoulder after being hauled to the ground by Ramos midway through the first-half. Madrid went onto win a third consecutive European Cup thanks to two errors from Liverpool goalkeeper Loris Karius and a wonderful overhead kick from Gareth Bale. The sides meet for the first time since that clash on Tuesday for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in the Spanish capital. "I said at the time, if you asked me in a press conference a week or month later, if I would invite Sergio Ramos to my 60th birthday? I would have said no," said Klopp. "I said I didn't like what happened that night. It was for us a strange night, but it was long ago. "We cannot get that feeling back or that anger or whatever so I don't even try. What I try is to prepare my team for tomorrow to show we are a good football team." Liverpool bounced back in style to win the Champions League in 2019 before ending a 30-year wait to be crowned English champions last season. But the Reds have struggled to match those standards this season in an injury-ravaged campaign. Klopp's men face a battle just to qualify for next season's Champions League via a top-four finish in the Premier League. "It was a different time, we were in a different place. Since then a lot of things happened. We feel good in our situation but we know we face a difficult opponent," added Klopp on how both sides have evolved over the past three years. "I heard from the outside, already everybody says Real Madrid is the favourite. Great, they are used to the role and we have no problem being the challenger." Real's victory in Kiev was the final match of Zinedine Zidane's first spell in charge of the Spanish giants. The Frenchman returned for his second stint in 2019, but despite winning La Liga in his first full season back in charge last year, finds himself under pressure once more with Madrid involved in a tight three-way battle for the Spanish title with rivals Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. Klopp was asked if he would ever fancy swapping Merseyside for Madrid, but said he is more interested in the Mallorcan sun if he ever moved to Spain. "When we came out the plane today I already regret that we don't live here because the weather is so much better here," he said. "My Spanish is really bad. You would not enjoy having me in Spain and I speak always this broken Spanish. All the clubs here have great managers. Real Mallorca would be nice, to live at least."

Klopp not on Real Madrid revenge mission

Liverpool's last dance with Real Madrid ended in painful defeat, with Mohamed Salah's shoulder dislocated by Sergio Ramos dragging him to the ground and goalkeeper Loris Karius left apologising to his fans.

Yet Karius's two errors, which handed Madrid a 14th European triumph in the 2018 Champions League final, were also the start of a journey for Liverpool.&nbsp;

Karius was ruthlessly cast aside and Alisson Becker signed for a then world record fee for a goalkeeper.&nbsp;

A year later Liverpool were the ones hoisting the Champions League trophy after beating Tottenham Hotspur in Madrid, before an even heavier burden was lifted when they were crowned English champions for the first time in 30 years.

But those highs have been followed by a fall from grace as Liverpool prepare to face Real again in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in Madrid on Tuesday.

Fortress Anfield has turned into a visitors' dream with fans absent because of the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

After nearly four years without a home league defeat, Liverpool have lost six in a row for the first time in the club's history.&nbsp;

Jurgen Klopp's men are in a scrap just to make it into next season's Champions League via a top-four finish in the Premier League.&nbsp;

Injuries have taken their toll. Captain Jordan Henderson and centre-backs Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Joel Matip will all miss both legs of the Real tie and are unlikely to play again this season.&nbsp;

The signings of Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota last summer were designed to build from a position of strength, but both have also missed a large part of the campaign through injury.&nbsp;

However, there could yet be a happy ending to a difficult season. Saturday's comprehensive 3-0 win at Arsenal was Liverpool's most complete performance of 2021.&nbsp;

Jota is back fit and firing, scoring six times in his last four games for club and country. Thiago is also starting to find his rhythm, helped by the return of Fabinho to midfield after months of deputising as a makeshift centre-back.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Ramos reunion denied -</h2>

&nbsp;

Real Madrid might have taken more comfort from Liverpool's problems were they not confronting their own period of introspection.

Since winning a third consecutive Champions League three years ago, the team has stalled, a failure to update and refresh seeing them tumble down the European pecking order.&nbsp;

When Madrid and Liverpool were matched last month with Chelsea and Porto in the semi-finals, many thought Chelsea had a kind draw for the quarters, and the semis too.

Madrid have been unfortunate to see their one statement signing since 2018, Eden Hazard, succumb to injury. Hazard could have been the successor to Cristiano Ronaldo and the catalyst for renewal but instead he has become an irrelevance.

If Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane was too loyal to an ageing core, the club were also prevented from forcing change, the coronavirus pandemic slashing revenues and making significant signings impossible.

The rise of Kylian Mbappe and Erling Braut Haaland means Madrid could still make up for lost time in the transfer market this summer.

For now, Zidane will turn again to his tried and trusted for the first leg at Valdebebas, with Luka Modric, Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Karim Benzema all three years older than the last time they played Liverpool, and arguably even more important.&nbsp;

Ramos will be denied a reunion with Salah because of a calf injury.

Madrid will also be buoyed by an upturn in form, the kind of late surge that has seen them deliver when it matters in the Champions League in many years gone by.

But Liverpool are showing signs of a resurgence too, their victory over Arsenal their third in a row and most convincing performance this year.

Crucially, both will believe winning this quarter-final puts them in sight of another European success, that from there they could defy recent trajectories by beating even the loftiest opponents in the competition.

In 2018, Real Madrid and Liverpool knew victory would secure them the trophy. This time they will hope it sparks a resurgence.

Liverpool's last dance with Real Madrid ended in painful defeat, with Mohamed Salah's shoulder dislocated by Sergio Ramos dragging him to the ground and goalkeeper Loris Karius left apologising to his fans.

Liverpool's last dance with Real Madrid ended in painful defeat, with Mohamed Salah's shoulder dislocated by Sergio Ramos dragging him to the ground and goalkeeper Loris Karius left apologising to his fans. Yet Karius's two errors, which handed Madrid a 14th European triumph in the 2018 Champions League final, were also the start of a journey for Liverpool. Karius was ruthlessly cast aside and Alisson Becker signed for a then world record fee for a goalkeeper. A year later Liverpool were the ones hoisting the Champions League trophy after beating Tottenham Hotspur in Madrid, before an even heavier burden was lifted when they were crowned English champions for the first time in 30 years. But those highs have been followed by a fall from grace as Liverpool prepare to face Real again in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final in Madrid on Tuesday. Fortress Anfield has turned into a visitors' dream with fans absent because of the coronavirus pandemic. After nearly four years without a home league defeat, Liverpool have lost six in a row for the first time in the club's history. Jurgen Klopp's men are in a scrap just to make it into next season's Champions League via a top-four finish in the Premier League. Injuries have taken their toll. Captain Jordan Henderson and centre-backs Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Joel Matip will all miss both legs of the Real tie and are unlikely to play again this season. The signings of Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota last summer were designed to build from a position of strength, but both have also missed a large part of the campaign through injury. However, there could yet be a happy ending to a difficult season. Saturday's comprehensive 3-0 win at Arsenal was Liverpool's most complete performance of 2021. Jota is back fit and firing, scoring six times in his last four games for club and country. Thiago is also starting to find his rhythm, helped by the return of Fabinho to midfield after months of deputising as a makeshift centre-back. - Ramos reunion denied - Real Madrid might have taken more comfort from Liverpool's problems were they not confronting their own period of introspection. Since winning a third consecutive Champions League three years ago, the team has stalled, a failure to update and refresh seeing them tumble down the European pecking order. When Madrid and Liverpool were matched last month with Chelsea and Porto in the semi-finals, many thought Chelsea had a kind draw for the quarters, and the semis too. Madrid have been unfortunate to see their one statement signing since 2018, Eden Hazard, succumb to injury. Hazard could have been the successor to Cristiano Ronaldo and the catalyst for renewal but instead he has become an irrelevance. If Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane was too loyal to an ageing core, the club were also prevented from forcing change, the coronavirus pandemic slashing revenues and making significant signings impossible. The rise of Kylian Mbappe and Erling Braut Haaland means Madrid could still make up for lost time in the transfer market this summer. For now, Zidane will turn again to his tried and trusted for the first leg at Valdebebas, with Luka Modric, Casemiro, Toni Kroos and Karim Benzema all three years older than the last time they played Liverpool, and arguably even more important. Ramos will be denied a reunion with Salah because of a calf injury. Madrid will also be buoyed by an upturn in form, the kind of late surge that has seen them deliver when it matters in the Champions League in many years gone by. But Liverpool are showing signs of a resurgence too, their victory over Arsenal their third in a row and most convincing performance this year. Crucially, both will believe winning this quarter-final puts them in sight of another European success, that from there they could defy recent trajectories by beating even the loftiest opponents in the competition. In 2018, Real Madrid and Liverpool knew victory would secure them the trophy. This time they will hope it sparks a resurgence.

Fallen giants seek revival as Real Madrid, Liverpool battle again

Mohamed Salah has urged Liverpool to make the best of their "tough" season by pushing for Champions League glory.

Jurgen Klopp's side are certain to surrender the Premier League title after a miserable run sent the champions crashing down to seventh place.

The injury-hit Reds are 25 points behind leaders Manchester City and five points adrift of fourth placed Chelsea.

Qualifying for next season's Champions League via a top four finish will be tricky but not impossible.

Liverpool have shown signs of getting back on track after beating Leipzig in the Champions League last 16 second leg and Wolves in the Premier League.

With a Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid looming in April, Egypt forward Salah wants his Liverpool team-mates to target European success.

"I'm happy about our last results, so hopefully we can just keep winning," Salah told Liverpool's website.

"It's tough for all of us because of the situation we have been through and our position in the Premier League, but I believe it's going to be better.

"In the Champions League we are doing good."

Despite Liverpool's poor run, Salah is still this season's joint Premier League top-scorer alongside Harry Kane on 17.

His own goalscoring has not suffered too badly as he has already reached 25 in all competitions for the third time in four seasons, but the forward is keen to focus on what he can do to help the side's progress.

"I don't want to just talk about my season because we play as a team, so I'd say it's a tough season for all of us and we just need to carry on and try to win games," Salah said.

"We're going to give our 100 per cent to win the next few games and hopefully we can do that and do good also in the Champions League."

Mohamed Salah has urged Liverpool to make the best of their "tough" season by pushing for Champions League glory. Jurgen Klopp's side are certain to surrender the Premier League title after a miserable run sent the champions crashing down to seventh place.

Mohamed Salah has urged Liverpool to make the best of their "tough" season by pushing for Champions League glory. Jurgen Klopp's side are certain to surrender the Premier League title after a miserable run sent the champions crashing down to seventh place. The injury-hit Reds are 25 points behind leaders Manchester City and five points adrift of fourth placed Chelsea. Qualifying for next season's Champions League via a top four finish will be tricky but not impossible. Liverpool have shown signs of getting back on track after beating Leipzig in the Champions League last 16 second leg and Wolves in the Premier League. With a Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid looming in April, Egypt forward Salah wants his Liverpool team-mates to target European success. "I'm happy about our last results, so hopefully we can just keep winning," Salah told Liverpool's website. "It's tough for all of us because of the situation we have been through and our position in the Premier League, but I believe it's going to be better. "In the Champions League we are doing good." Despite Liverpool's poor run, Salah is still this season's joint Premier League top-scorer alongside Harry Kane on 17. His own goalscoring has not suffered too badly as he has already reached 25 in all competitions for the third time in four seasons, but the forward is keen to focus on what he can do to help the side's progress. "I don't want to just talk about my season because we play as a team, so I'd say it's a tough season for all of us and we just need to carry on and try to win games," Salah said. "We're going to give our 100 per cent to win the next few games and hopefully we can do that and do good also in the Champions League."

Salah targets successful end to Liverpool's 'tough' season

Jurgen Klopp said he had no problem with winning "three dirty points" as Diogo Jota returned to haunt Wolves with the only goal in a 1-0 win at Molineux on Monday.

A wretched run of six successive home league defeats has left Liverpool with an uphill task to qualify for the Champions League next season.

But Klopp's men have now won six of their last seven games away from Anfield.

Victory moved the English champions back up to sixth and within five points of fourth-placed Chelsea.

"It's all about the result," said Klopp. "It was a big fight. We won three dirty points, I am completely fine with that. We need that to get back on track."

A disappointing night for Wolves ended with a bigger concern than just the result as goalkeeper Rui Patricio had to be stretchered off after 15 minutes of treatment for a head injury following a collision with his own player Connor Coady in the closing stages.

However, Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo allayed fears over the Portuguese international's health.

"He's OK. He's conscious, he remembers what happens, he's aware, so they tell me he's OK," said Nuno. "He's going to recover, so it's OK."

Wolves have already been badly affected by a serious head injury this season. Their top scorer for the past two seasons, Raul Jimenez, has been out since fracturing his skull against Arsenal in November.

The absence of Jimenez means Nuno's men have missed Jota even more since he joined the English champions for an initial £41 million ($57 million) in September.

Jota has also been missed by Liverpool for much of the past three months due to a knee injury that halted his flying start to life at Anfield.

But the winger is hopeful his return can inspire a strong end to the season to secure Champions League football either via the Premier League or winning Liverpool's seventh European Cup.

"Hopefully this can be a great start of a run towards the end of the season," said Jota.

<h2>- Alisson escapes -</h2>

Klopp named the same side that bounced back to form with a 2-0 win over RB Leipzig last midweek to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

However, the visitors should have been punished for a slow start as goalkeeper Alisson Becker somehow escaped without conceding a penalty when he crashed into Nelson Semedo after just two minutes.

Sadio Mane missed two big chances at the other end to open the scoring for the visitors, but the Senegalese did have a part to play in the only goal of the game in first-half stoppage time as he exchanged passes with Mohamed Salah before teeing up Jota for a low shot that should have been kept out by Patricio low to his right.

Liverpool's lack of fluency compared to the side that romped to the title last season was even more clear after the break as they were happy to sit on their lead and would have been punished by a more clinical opponent.

Coady headed wide a great chance to score against his former club, while Adama Traore stung the palms of Alisson and Fabio Silva's weak header floated into the grateful Liverpool 'keeper's arms.

But with Jimenez watching on from the stands, even Liverpool's makeshift central defensive pairing of Nat Phillips and Ozan Kabak were not asked serious questions.

Salah had a second goal for Liverpool ruled out for offside five minutes from time. During his attempt to stop the Egyptian, Coady inadvertently caught his goalkeeper.

A lengthy stoppage ensued before the game restarted in the 100th minute and Wolves used a concussion substitute as John Ruddy replaced Patricio.

Despite a nervy finale, Liverpool held out to take advantage of a weekend in which a host of the other contenders for the top four all faltered.

Jurgen Klopp said he had no problem with winning "three dirty points" as Diogo Jota returned to haunt Wolves with the only goal in a 1-0 win at Molineux on Monday.

Jurgen Klopp said he had no problem with winning "three dirty points" as Diogo Jota returned to haunt Wolves with the only goal in a 1-0 win at Molineux on Monday. A wretched run of six successive home league defeats has left Liverpool with an uphill task to qualify for the Champions League next season. But Klopp's men have now won six of their last seven games away from Anfield. Victory moved the English champions back up to sixth and within five points of fourth-placed Chelsea. "It's all about the result," said Klopp. "It was a big fight. We won three dirty points, I am completely fine with that. We need that to get back on track." A disappointing night for Wolves ended with a bigger concern than just the result as goalkeeper Rui Patricio had to be stretchered off after 15 minutes of treatment for a head injury following a collision with his own player Connor Coady in the closing stages. However, Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo allayed fears over the Portuguese international's health. "He's OK. He's conscious, he remembers what happens, he's aware, so they tell me he's OK," said Nuno. "He's going to recover, so it's OK." Wolves have already been badly affected by a serious head injury this season. Their top scorer for the past two seasons, Raul Jimenez, has been out since fracturing his skull against Arsenal in November. The absence of Jimenez means Nuno's men have missed Jota even more since he joined the English champions for an initial £41 million ($57 million) in September. Jota has also been missed by Liverpool for much of the past three months due to a knee injury that halted his flying start to life at Anfield. But the winger is hopeful his return can inspire a strong end to the season to secure Champions League football either via the Premier League or winning Liverpool's seventh European Cup. "Hopefully this can be a great start of a run towards the end of the season," said Jota. - Alisson escapes - Klopp named the same side that bounced back to form with a 2-0 win over RB Leipzig last midweek to reach the quarter-finals of the Champions League. However, the visitors should have been punished for a slow start as goalkeeper Alisson Becker somehow escaped without conceding a penalty when he crashed into Nelson Semedo after just two minutes. Sadio Mane missed two big chances at the other end to open the scoring for the visitors, but the Senegalese did have a part to play in the only goal of the game in first-half stoppage time as he exchanged passes with Mohamed Salah before teeing up Jota for a low shot that should have been kept out by Patricio low to his right. Liverpool's lack of fluency compared to the side that romped to the title last season was even more clear after the break as they were happy to sit on their lead and would have been punished by a more clinical opponent. Coady headed wide a great chance to score against his former club, while Adama Traore stung the palms of Alisson and Fabio Silva's weak header floated into the grateful Liverpool 'keeper's arms. But with Jimenez watching on from the stands, even Liverpool's makeshift central defensive pairing of Nat Phillips and Ozan Kabak were not asked serious questions. Salah had a second goal for Liverpool ruled out for offside five minutes from time. During his attempt to stop the Egyptian, Coady inadvertently caught his goalkeeper. A lengthy stoppage ensued before the game restarted in the 100th minute and Wolves used a concussion substitute as John Ruddy replaced Patricio. Despite a nervy finale, Liverpool held out to take advantage of a weekend in which a host of the other contenders for the top four all faltered.

Klopp happy to win 'dirty' as Jota returns to haunt Wolves

Liverpool eased past RB Leipzig into the Champions League quarter-finals with a 2-0 win in Budapest Wednesday that coach Jurgen Klopp said helps his side put their Premier League woes to one side. &nbsp;

Repeating their rapid-fire double act from the first leg, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane again struck within four second-half minutes to give the Reds a 4-0 aggregate win and keep alive Liverpool's hopes of rescuing their miserable domestic season with European glory.

After six successive defeats at Anfield and dropping to eighth place in the Premier League, Klopp's men looked relieved to be away from home, with the second leg also played in the Hungarian capital due to Covid-19 travel restrictions.

"They were outstanding. We had to switch off the Premier League stuff to get here and to try. To give it a proper try," Klopp told BT Sport.

"The boys really enjoyed themselves tonight which is important," said Klopp.

"It is a big result for us," said Salah.

"We lost a few games in the Premier League, the team is not in the best shape but we want to fight in the Champions League," he said.

"It's been tough in the Premier League, everybody can see that. The last couple of years we were winning, we were flying. This year we had a couple of injuries so we were unlucky, we are trying to fix that but it is hard," he added.

While the Reds showed attacking intent from the off, they squandered a string of chances throughout the first half.

"First-half we created massive chances and didn't score which is a thing we have in 2021," said Klopp.

Unmarked at a corner, Diogo Jota should have opened their account in the 18th minute but the Portuguese striker headed straight at Hungarian goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi who tipped over.

Midway through the period, an acrobatic scissor kick by Thiago Alcantara released Salah on the left but his left-footed effort was blocked by Gulacsi with Mane unable to convert the rebound.

<h2>- Leipzig miss chances -</h2>

Then on the half-hour, the onrushing Salah couldn't finish from close range after meeting a cross by Trent Alexander-Arnold who was sent clear on the right by a slide-rule pass by Mane.

Roused at last by the narrow escapes, Leipzig began to venture beyond Liverpool's high line and managed to carve out some chances of their own.

Kevin Kampl forced a save from Alisson Becker with a curler from distance, while a minute later Swedish playmaker Emil Forsberg, back from injury, clipped a snapshot just wide of the post.

Still, with Brazil's Fabinho back in the starting side and directing affairs in midfield, the better chances fell to Liverpool.

Jota again fired straight at Gulacsi just before the break and then into the side-netting on the whistle after a slip by French defender Dayot Upamecano.

Leipzig, flying domestically on the back of six straight Bundesliga wins but nervy in Budapest, urgently needed a goal to rattle Liverpool but continued to lack penetration in the second half.

In truth, Julian Nagelsmann's men, who dumped Tottenham out at this stage of the competition last year and Manchester United in the group stage this season, rarely looked like claiming an even bigger scalp by turning the tie around.

Their last opportunity arrived on 65 minutes but Alexander Sorloth's header from a cross by Hwang Hee-chan spun over Alisson's fingertips only to rebound off the bar.

Soon after, Salah and Mane ruthlessly took advantage of the let-off by securing Liverpool's berth in the last eight.

In the 70th minute, the Egyptian fired a shot past Gulacsi, then four minutes later Mane turned a cross by substitute Divock Origi past the hapless Hungarian.

"The best thing that the boys did is that no one could see how good Leipzig can be," said Klopp.&nbsp;

"We defended them really well because they are a monster. They usually are so powerful," he said.

"We want to win football games, we feel it now for the first time in a while and it is a massive difference."

Liverpool eased past RB Leipzig into the Champions League quarter-finals with a 2-0 win in Budapest Wednesday that coach Jurgen Klopp said helps his side put their Premier League woes to one side.

Liverpool eased past RB Leipzig into the Champions League quarter-finals with a 2-0 win in Budapest Wednesday that coach Jurgen Klopp said helps his side put their Premier League woes to one side. Repeating their rapid-fire double act from the first leg, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane again struck within four second-half minutes to give the Reds a 4-0 aggregate win and keep alive Liverpool's hopes of rescuing their miserable domestic season with European glory. After six successive defeats at Anfield and dropping to eighth place in the Premier League, Klopp's men looked relieved to be away from home, with the second leg also played in the Hungarian capital due to Covid-19 travel restrictions. "They were outstanding. We had to switch off the Premier League stuff to get here and to try. To give it a proper try," Klopp told BT Sport. "The boys really enjoyed themselves tonight which is important," said Klopp. "It is a big result for us," said Salah. "We lost a few games in the Premier League, the team is not in the best shape but we want to fight in the Champions League," he said. "It's been tough in the Premier League, everybody can see that. The last couple of years we were winning, we were flying. This year we had a couple of injuries so we were unlucky, we are trying to fix that but it is hard," he added. While the Reds showed attacking intent from the off, they squandered a string of chances throughout the first half. "First-half we created massive chances and didn't score which is a thing we have in 2021," said Klopp. Unmarked at a corner, Diogo Jota should have opened their account in the 18th minute but the Portuguese striker headed straight at Hungarian goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi who tipped over. Midway through the period, an acrobatic scissor kick by Thiago Alcantara released Salah on the left but his left-footed effort was blocked by Gulacsi with Mane unable to convert the rebound. - Leipzig miss chances - Then on the half-hour, the onrushing Salah couldn't finish from close range after meeting a cross by Trent Alexander-Arnold who was sent clear on the right by a slide-rule pass by Mane. Roused at last by the narrow escapes, Leipzig began to venture beyond Liverpool's high line and managed to carve out some chances of their own. Kevin Kampl forced a save from Alisson Becker with a curler from distance, while a minute later Swedish playmaker Emil Forsberg, back from injury, clipped a snapshot just wide of the post. Still, with Brazil's Fabinho back in the starting side and directing affairs in midfield, the better chances fell to Liverpool. Jota again fired straight at Gulacsi just before the break and then into the side-netting on the whistle after a slip by French defender Dayot Upamecano. Leipzig, flying domestically on the back of six straight Bundesliga wins but nervy in Budapest, urgently needed a goal to rattle Liverpool but continued to lack penetration in the second half. In truth, Julian Nagelsmann's men, who dumped Tottenham out at this stage of the competition last year and Manchester United in the group stage this season, rarely looked like claiming an even bigger scalp by turning the tie around. Their last opportunity arrived on 65 minutes but Alexander Sorloth's header from a cross by Hwang Hee-chan spun over Alisson's fingertips only to rebound off the bar. Soon after, Salah and Mane ruthlessly took advantage of the let-off by securing Liverpool's berth in the last eight. In the 70th minute, the Egyptian fired a shot past Gulacsi, then four minutes later Mane turned a cross by substitute Divock Origi past the hapless Hungarian. "The best thing that the boys did is that no one could see how good Leipzig can be," said Klopp. "We defended them really well because they are a monster. They usually are so powerful," he said. "We want to win football games, we feel it now for the first time in a while and it is a massive difference."

Liverpool 'switch off' domestic woes to ease into Champions League last eight

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp on Tuesday ruled himself out of contention to replace Joachim Loew as Germany manager, saying he intended to see out his contract at the Premier League champions.

The German football association said Loew would step down from his role as national team boss following the delayed Euro 2020, which ends in July.

Loew will leave with a year left on his deal, having signed up until the 2022 World Cup finals in Qatar.

Klopp was immediately installed as one of the favourites but the 53-year-old German said he was not available at a Champions League press conference on Tuesday.

"I have three years left at Liverpool, that's a simple statement, a simple situation," he said.

"You sign a contract and you normally try to stick to that contract don't you? I had a contract in Mainz where I stuck with them even though there was interest from other Bundesliga teams with more money.

"It is just timing and if it doesn't work out you don't have to lose any sleep over it.

"Someone else will do the job and I am pretty sure with the amount of really good German managers at the moment the German FA will find a good solution."

The 61-year-old Loew, nicknamed "Jogi", has been in charge of Germany since 2006 and won the World Cup in Brazil in 2014.

But he has faced three years of criticism since holders Germany crashed out of the 2018 World Cup in Russia at the group stage.

"Jogi Loew did an incredible job for so many years, I think he is the longest servant we had in Germany but for sure one of the most successful," added Klopp.

"I understand that he wants to have this highlight for him of the European Championships and try to squeeze everything out that he can from this tournament."

<h2>- Liverpool slump -</h2>

Klopp's Liverpool play Bundesliga high-fliers RB Leipzig in the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Wednesday after winning the first leg 2-0.

Liverpool's "home" match against Leipzig will be played in the Puskas Arena in Budapest as a result of Covid-19 travel restrictions. It is the same stadium that hosted the first leg.

Klopp, whose team have lost their past six Premier League home games, was asked whether Liverpool could become European champions for a seventh time.

"Two things -- the quality and football in general," he said. "You always have a chance in the next game.

"It's half-time (in the tie), we have to play the game. I have no doubt about us. We will give it a proper fight, we have 95 minutes to use."

And he bemoaned the absence of fans during the coronavirus pandemic, which has deprived the side of passionate home support at Anfield.

"Football would not be the game we love if no one could watch it in the stadium," said Klopp.

"We have missed fans as we've had one of the best atmospheres in the world. That is no excuse, but in difficult times that can help. I can't wait for the day people are allowed (back)."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp on Tuesday ruled himself out of contention to replace Joachim Loew as Germany manager, saying he intended to see out his contract at the Premier League champions.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp on Tuesday ruled himself out of contention to replace Joachim Loew as Germany manager, saying he intended to see out his contract at the Premier League champions. The German football association said Loew would step down from his role as national team boss following the delayed Euro 2020, which ends in July. Loew will leave with a year left on his deal, having signed up until the 2022 World Cup finals in Qatar. Klopp was immediately installed as one of the favourites but the 53-year-old German said he was not available at a Champions League press conference on Tuesday. "I have three years left at Liverpool, that's a simple statement, a simple situation," he said. "You sign a contract and you normally try to stick to that contract don't you? I had a contract in Mainz where I stuck with them even though there was interest from other Bundesliga teams with more money. "It is just timing and if it doesn't work out you don't have to lose any sleep over it. "Someone else will do the job and I am pretty sure with the amount of really good German managers at the moment the German FA will find a good solution." The 61-year-old Loew, nicknamed "Jogi", has been in charge of Germany since 2006 and won the World Cup in Brazil in 2014. But he has faced three years of criticism since holders Germany crashed out of the 2018 World Cup in Russia at the group stage. "Jogi Loew did an incredible job for so many years, I think he is the longest servant we had in Germany but for sure one of the most successful," added Klopp. "I understand that he wants to have this highlight for him of the European Championships and try to squeeze everything out that he can from this tournament." - Liverpool slump - Klopp's Liverpool play Bundesliga high-fliers RB Leipzig in the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Wednesday after winning the first leg 2-0. Liverpool's "home" match against Leipzig will be played in the Puskas Arena in Budapest as a result of Covid-19 travel restrictions. It is the same stadium that hosted the first leg. Klopp, whose team have lost their past six Premier League home games, was asked whether Liverpool could become European champions for a seventh time. "Two things -- the quality and football in general," he said. "You always have a chance in the next game. "It's half-time (in the tie), we have to play the game. I have no doubt about us. We will give it a proper fight, we have 95 minutes to use." And he bemoaned the absence of fans during the coronavirus pandemic, which has deprived the side of passionate home support at Anfield. "Football would not be the game we love if no one could watch it in the stadium," said Klopp. "We have missed fans as we've had one of the best atmospheres in the world. That is no excuse, but in difficult times that can help. I can't wait for the day people are allowed (back)."

Will Jurgen Klopp replace Joachim Loew as Germany coach? Liverpool manager responds

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp hopes a change of competition will give his side a break from their wretched Premier League form that has put their chances of a top-four finish in jeopardy.

A sixth successive home league defeat, the latest to struggling Fulham on Sunday, left the Reds well adrift of Champions League qualification, having played more matches than the teams immediately above them.

On Wednesday they will play in Budapest again -- the "home" second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie against RB Leipzig, holding a 2-0 lead.

Not playing at Anfield, due to coronavirus travel restrictions, could be a relief to Klopp following his team's dismal run.

"If we can go through, which is not guaranteed, then that could give confidence," said the German manager. &nbsp;

"Then we have Wolves, which is a tough one, and then we have a couple of weeks off because of the international break and all these kind of things.

"We have to use that time, we have to hope all the boys who go to their national teams come back healthy, like always.

"Then I think there are another nine or 10 games to go, sounds like 27 or 30 points, so a lot to go for and we will try."

Diogo Jota and Fabinho are both likely to start against Leipzig after returning from lengthy injury spells but Klopp does not believe his side will be able to recover the swagger they had over the past two seasons until everyone is fit again.

Captain Jordan Henderson should play again this season after groin surgery but centre-backs Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip have been ruled out of the remainder of the current campaign.

"For being the successful team again, for being the team we can be in the best possible way, of course we have to be complete," said Klopp, who led Liverpool to their first English top-flight title for 30 years last season.

James Milner, captaining the side in the absence of Henderson, said Liverpool, who were top of the table at Christmas, were letting their fans down.

"It definitely hurts," he told Sky Sports. "When you're playing for a club with the history of Liverpool, the history we've created as a group of players, the standards we've set, we're not hitting them at this moment in time and it's not good enough.

"It's disappointing and hard when you're letting the club down and letting the fans down.

"It's for us to keep pushing and dig ourselves out of the mess."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp hopes a change of competition will give his side a break from their wretched Premier League form that has put their chances of a top-four finish in jeopardy.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp hopes a change of competition will give his side a break from their wretched Premier League form that has put their chances of a top-four finish in jeopardy. A sixth successive home league defeat, the latest to struggling Fulham on Sunday, left the Reds well adrift of Champions League qualification, having played more matches than the teams immediately above them. On Wednesday they will play in Budapest again -- the "home" second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie against RB Leipzig, holding a 2-0 lead. Not playing at Anfield, due to coronavirus travel restrictions, could be a relief to Klopp following his team's dismal run. "If we can go through, which is not guaranteed, then that could give confidence," said the German manager. "Then we have Wolves, which is a tough one, and then we have a couple of weeks off because of the international break and all these kind of things. "We have to use that time, we have to hope all the boys who go to their national teams come back healthy, like always. "Then I think there are another nine or 10 games to go, sounds like 27 or 30 points, so a lot to go for and we will try." Diogo Jota and Fabinho are both likely to start against Leipzig after returning from lengthy injury spells but Klopp does not believe his side will be able to recover the swagger they had over the past two seasons until everyone is fit again. Captain Jordan Henderson should play again this season after groin surgery but centre-backs Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip have been ruled out of the remainder of the current campaign. "For being the successful team again, for being the team we can be in the best possible way, of course we have to be complete," said Klopp, who led Liverpool to their first English top-flight title for 30 years last season. James Milner, captaining the side in the absence of Henderson, said Liverpool, who were top of the table at Christmas, were letting their fans down. "It definitely hurts," he told Sky Sports. "When you're playing for a club with the history of Liverpool, the history we've created as a group of players, the standards we've set, we're not hitting them at this moment in time and it's not good enough. "It's disappointing and hard when you're letting the club down and letting the fans down. "It's for us to keep pushing and dig ourselves out of the mess."

Klopp hopes for Champions League respite for struggling Liverpool

Jurgen Klopp admitted Liverpool's stunning collapse is one of the worst spells of his managerial career after Mario Lemina condemned the troubled champions to a shock 1-0 defeat against lowly Fulham on Sunday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/leicester-bounce-back-to-go-second-xhaka-shocker-costs-arsenal-368559" hreflang="en">Leicester bounce back to go second, Xhaka shocker costs Arsenal</a>

Klopp's side are four points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea, who can extend that lead to seven if they beat Everton on Monday.

That would leave Liverpool with a tough task to qualify for next season's Champions League via a top four finish.

They could still make it by winning the Champions League, but glory in Europe's elite club competition is hard to envisage given Liverpool's steep decline.

In a sign of how far they have fallen, even third-bottom Fulham easily out-played Liverpool to secure three points at Anfield for the first time in nine years.

Without a home victory since before Christmas, Liverpool are a pale shadow of the team that romped to their first English title for 30 years last season.

They have been destabilised by horrific injury problems in defence, but it was still jarring to see the toothless Reds surrender so tamely once again. &nbsp;

Asked if it was among his worst periods, Klopp said: "I would wish to say no but yes it is. That's not a problem. I don't always have to have the best times.

"This team is an extreme team. We were extremely successful and now we have an extreme situation as well but we will fight through."

Worryingly for Liverpool fans, Klopp conceded he does not have the answers to arrest the slide.

"We never had a momentum in the season. You can see it's still in the boys. They still have it all but at the moment can't show it. It would be a masterpiece to find out how we change that overnight," he said.

"My boys wanted it. It's easy to say Fulham have won it so wanted it more. I don't think that's the problem.

"I don't have to stand here and say we're fighting for this or that."

Klopp insists his stars will remain loyal even if Liverpool miss out on a Champions League place.

But on the evidence of their latest embarrassment, the Reds boss might need to make significant changes to catch champions-elect&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;City&nbsp;next term.

With one eye on defending their 2-0 lead in Wednesday's Champions League last 16 second leg against Leipzig, Klopp made seven changes and fielded a youthful defence featuring Neco Williams, Rhys Williams and Nat Phillips.

Unsurprisingly, Liverpool showed a lack of organisation and cohesion at the back, with Josh Maja sneaking behind the two inexperienced central defenders to scoop his volley over the bar.

Fulham were causing Liverpool's makeshift defence all manner of problems and Maja was narrowly off-target from Ademola Lookman's pass.

Diogo Jota made his first start since December after injury and Xherdan Shaqiri was up front as they replaced Sadio Mane and the injured Roberto Firmino.

Shaqiri curled a free-kick just over, but Liverpool were impotent in attack and Fulham's impressive display was rewarded in first half stoppage-time.

When Andrew Robertson could only head clear to the edge of the area, Mohamed Salah was easily brushed off the ball by Lemina, who drilled a fine finish into the far corner of Alisson Becker's goal.

It was a sweet moment for the Gabon international after his accidental handball saw Maja's equaliser against Tottenham harshly ruled out in midweek.

Salah's half-hearted effort was hardly the response Klopp was looking for after the Egyptian showed his frustration when he was substituted against Chelsea on Thursday.

Jota's stinging volley from Neco Williams' cross forced a fine Alphonse Areola save early in the second half.

Just after that chance, a plane flew over Anfield bearing the slogan "Unity is strength. Let's go Reds. YNWA".

Although Mane came off the bench to loop a header onto the woodwork and Shaqiri went close with a curler, Liverpool rarely looked like responding to that call to arms.

Jurgen Klopp admitted Liverpool's stunning collapse is one of the worst spells of his managerial career after Mario Lemina condemned the troubled champions to a shock 1-0 defeat against lowly Fulham on Sunday.

Jurgen Klopp admitted Liverpool's stunning collapse is one of the worst spells of his managerial career after Mario Lemina condemned the troubled champions to a shock 1-0 defeat against lowly Fulham on Sunday. ALSO READ: Leicester bounce back to go second, Xhaka shocker costs Arsenal Klopp's side are four points adrift of fourth-placed Chelsea, who can extend that lead to seven if they beat Everton on Monday. That would leave Liverpool with a tough task to qualify for next season's Champions League via a top four finish. They could still make it by winning the Champions League, but glory in Europe's elite club competition is hard to envisage given Liverpool's steep decline. In a sign of how far they have fallen, even third-bottom Fulham easily out-played Liverpool to secure three points at Anfield for the first time in nine years. Without a home victory since before Christmas, Liverpool are a pale shadow of the team that romped to their first English title for 30 years last season. They have been destabilised by horrific injury problems in defence, but it was still jarring to see the toothless Reds surrender so tamely once again. Asked if it was among his worst periods, Klopp said: "I would wish to say no but yes it is. That's not a problem. I don't always have to have the best times. "This team is an extreme team. We were extremely successful and now we have an extreme situation as well but we will fight through." Worryingly for Liverpool fans, Klopp conceded he does not have the answers to arrest the slide. "We never had a momentum in the season. You can see it's still in the boys. They still have it all but at the moment can't show it. It would be a masterpiece to find out how we change that overnight," he said. "My boys wanted it. It's easy to say Fulham have won it so wanted it more. I don't think that's the problem. "I don't have to stand here and say we're fighting for this or that." Klopp insists his stars will remain loyal even if Liverpool miss out on a Champions League place. But on the evidence of their latest embarrassment, the Reds boss might need to make significant changes to catch champions-elect Manchester City next term. With one eye on defending their 2-0 lead in Wednesday's Champions League last 16 second leg against Leipzig, Klopp made seven changes and fielded a youthful defence featuring Neco Williams, Rhys Williams and Nat Phillips. Unsurprisingly, Liverpool showed a lack of organisation and cohesion at the back, with Josh Maja sneaking behind the two inexperienced central defenders to scoop his volley over the bar. Fulham were causing Liverpool's makeshift defence all manner of problems and Maja was narrowly off-target from Ademola Lookman's pass. Diogo Jota made his first start since December after injury and Xherdan Shaqiri was up front as they replaced Sadio Mane and the injured Roberto Firmino. Shaqiri curled a free-kick just over, but Liverpool were impotent in attack and Fulham's impressive display was rewarded in first half stoppage-time. When Andrew Robertson could only head clear to the edge of the area, Mohamed Salah was easily brushed off the ball by Lemina, who drilled a fine finish into the far corner of Alisson Becker's goal. It was a sweet moment for the Gabon international after his accidental handball saw Maja's equaliser against Tottenham harshly ruled out in midweek. Salah's half-hearted effort was hardly the response Klopp was looking for after the Egyptian showed his frustration when he was substituted against Chelsea on Thursday. Jota's stinging volley from Neco Williams' cross forced a fine Alphonse Areola save early in the second half. Just after that chance, a plane flew over Anfield bearing the slogan "Unity is strength. Let's go Reds. YNWA". Although Mane came off the bench to loop a header onto the woodwork and Shaqiri went close with a curler, Liverpool rarely looked like responding to that call to arms.

Liverpool crash again as Fulham plunder Anfield win

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp raised eyebrows when he replaced top scorer Mohamed Salah in Thursday's 1-0 defeat by&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;but the German defended his decision, saying the striker was "feeling the intensity".

Klopp took off Salah, the league's leading scorer with 17 goals, for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in the 62nd minute when Liverpool were hunting an equaliser after Mason Mount had given&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;the lead in the first half.

Egyptian Salah was baffled by the decision, as he left the field shaking his head.

"In that moment he looked like he felt the intensity and I didn't want to risk it," Klopp said. "It is all fine, I make decisions that I think are right in the moment.

"I just brought on fresh legs. (Salah) looked like he suffered a bit, he played a lot of games. I could have taken off Sadio (Mane) or Bobby (Roberto Firmino), that is all clear, but at that moment it looked like Mo."

Liverpool ripped up the record books last season on the way to their first English top-flight title in 30 years, but a season marred by injuries and poor form has left them in seventh on 43 points from 27 games, four points adrift of&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;in fourth.

Klopp's side have lost five successive home games for the first time in their history and gone more than 10 hours without a goal from open play at Anfield.

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher said the Merseyside club must take action in the summer transfer window to address their goal-scoring problem.

"At this moment when you're watching Liverpool, you're not quite sure where the goals are going to come from," Carragher told Sky Sports.

"Liverpool need to do something big in the transfer market in terms of bringing someone in to score goals."

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp raised eyebrows when he replaced top scorer Mohamed Salah in Thursday's 1-0 defeat by Chelsea but the German defended his decision, saying the striker was "feeling the intensity".

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp raised eyebrows when he replaced top scorer Mohamed Salah in Thursday's 1-0 defeat by Chelsea but the German defended his decision, saying the striker was "feeling the intensity". Klopp took off Salah, the league's leading scorer with 17 goals, for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in the 62nd minute when Liverpool were hunting an equaliser after Mason Mount had given Chelsea the lead in the first half. Egyptian Salah was baffled by the decision, as he left the field shaking his head. "In that moment he looked like he felt the intensity and I didn't want to risk it," Klopp said. "It is all fine, I make decisions that I think are right in the moment. "I just brought on fresh legs. (Salah) looked like he suffered a bit, he played a lot of games. I could have taken off Sadio (Mane) or Bobby (Roberto Firmino), that is all clear, but at that moment it looked like Mo." Liverpool ripped up the record books last season on the way to their first English top-flight title in 30 years, but a season marred by injuries and poor form has left them in seventh on 43 points from 27 games, four points adrift of Chelsea in fourth. Klopp's side have lost five successive home games for the first time in their history and gone more than 10 hours without a goal from open play at Anfield. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher said the Merseyside club must take action in the summer transfer window to address their goal-scoring problem. "At this moment when you're watching Liverpool, you're not quite sure where the goals are going to come from," Carragher told Sky Sports. "Liverpool need to do something big in the transfer market in terms of bringing someone in to score goals."

Salah was feeling the intensity, Klopp says after Chelsea defeat

Liverpool said Tuesday they are "deeply saddened" by the death of former great Ian St John aged 82 after a long illness.

The Scotland international forward was a pivotal player in the first great Reds side built by Bill Shankly that won two league titles in 1964 and 1966.

St John won a place in Liverpool fans' hearts forever with one of the most iconic goals in their history as he netted the winner in extra time to secure their first ever FA Cup triumph against Leeds in 1965.

St John scored 118 goals in 425 appearances for Liverpool between 1961 and 1971.

He made an immediate impact after being bought from Motherwell for a then club-record fee of £37,500 in securing promotion to the First Division in the 1961/62 campaign.

Shankly described the arrival of St John and Ron Yeats years later as the "turning point" for the club.

"Liverpool Football Club is deeply saddened by the passing of Reds legend Ian St John, aged 82," read a Liverpool statement.

St John, who scored nine goals in 21 appearances for Scotland from 1959-65, went on to manage Motherwell and Portsmouth after retiring as a player.

He then formed a popular partnership with former England star Jimmy Greaves on television in their 'Saint and Greavsie' programme.

"It is with a heavy heart that we have to inform you that after a long illness we have lost a husband, father and grandfather," read a statement form the St John family.

“He passed away peacefully with his family at his bedside.

"We would like to thank all the staff at Arrowe Park Hospital for their hard work and dedication during these very difficult times.

“The family would be grateful for privacy at this extremely sad time."

St John -- who was one of six children and worked for a while in a steelworks like his father Alex who had died when he was six-years-old -- had suffered from bladder cancer in 2014.

Motherwell, for whom he scored 80 goals in 113 league games, also issued a statement.

"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Ian St John. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time."

Former Liverpool and England defender Jamie Carragher who like St John has gone to become a respected pundit tweeted his own tribute.

"RIP Ian St John.

"Another Liverpool Legend sadly passes away. One of the players along with Bill Shankly who made this club what it is today.

"I'll remember him most on the best football show on tv, The Saint &amp; Greavsie. X"

Liverpool said Tuesday they are "deeply saddened" by the death of former great Ian St John aged 82 after a long illness. The Scotland international forward was a pivotal player in the first great Reds side built by Bill Shankly that won two league titles in 1964 and 1966.

Liverpool said Tuesday they are "deeply saddened" by the death of former great Ian St John aged 82 after a long illness. The Scotland international forward was a pivotal player in the first great Reds side built by Bill Shankly that won two league titles in 1964 and 1966. St John won a place in Liverpool fans' hearts forever with one of the most iconic goals in their history as he netted the winner in extra time to secure their first ever FA Cup triumph against Leeds in 1965. St John scored 118 goals in 425 appearances for Liverpool between 1961 and 1971. He made an immediate impact after being bought from Motherwell for a then club-record fee of £37,500 in securing promotion to the First Division in the 1961/62 campaign. Shankly described the arrival of St John and Ron Yeats years later as the "turning point" for the club. "Liverpool Football Club is deeply saddened by the passing of Reds legend Ian St John, aged 82," read a Liverpool statement. St John, who scored nine goals in 21 appearances for Scotland from 1959-65, went on to manage Motherwell and Portsmouth after retiring as a player. He then formed a popular partnership with former England star Jimmy Greaves on television in their 'Saint and Greavsie' programme. "It is with a heavy heart that we have to inform you that after a long illness we have lost a husband, father and grandfather," read a statement form the St John family. “He passed away peacefully with his family at his bedside. "We would like to thank all the staff at Arrowe Park Hospital for their hard work and dedication during these very difficult times. “The family would be grateful for privacy at this extremely sad time." St John -- who was one of six children and worked for a while in a steelworks like his father Alex who had died when he was six-years-old -- had suffered from bladder cancer in 2014. Motherwell, for whom he scored 80 goals in 113 league games, also issued a statement. "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Ian St John. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time." Former Liverpool and England defender Jamie Carragher who like St John has gone to become a respected pundit tweeted his own tribute. "RIP Ian St John. "Another Liverpool Legend sadly passes away. One of the players along with Bill Shankly who made this club what it is today. "I'll remember him most on the best football show on tv, The Saint & Greavsie. X"

Former Liverpool great St John dies aged 82

Jurgen Klopp believes Liverpool can prove the doubters that have written their season off wrong after snapping a four-game Premier League losing streak to win 2-0 at Sheffield United on Sunday.

The English champions' title defence has been decimated by injuries and they face a battle just to qualify for next season's Champions League via a top-four finish.

Klopp's men remain in sixth, but are now just two points behind fourth-placed West Ham and can leapfrog Chelsea in fifth when the Blues visit Anfield on Thursday.

"Plenty of people have written us off. That's fine," said Klopp. "With all the problems we have had we're still around the exciting places."

Captain Jordan Henderson has been added to Liverpool's long-term injury list, while goalkeeper Alisson Becker was absent after he lost his father to a swimming accident in Brazil this week.

<h2>- 'We're still there' -</h2>

But the Championship-bound Blades proved the perfect opponents for Klopp's men to restore some confidence as Curtis Jones's second-half strike and Kean Bryan's own goal got the Reds back to winning ways.

"This was about us showing we're still there," added Klopp.

"We play Chelsea on Thursday, we have to show it again. We have to win football games, we know that. There's no way into the Champions League without results."

With Alisson's understudy Caoimhin Kelleher also absent due to injury, Liverpool's third-choice goalkeeper Adrian started in the Premier League for the first time since conceding nine goals in two games in October to Aston Villa and Everton.

However, the much-maligned Spaniard made an important early save to prevent David McGoldrick giving Sheffield United a shock lead.

Most of the action was taking place down the other end as Aaron Ramsdale brilliantly denied Roberto Firmino, who should have teed up Jones for a tap-in.

The former Bournemouth stopper also did well to block from Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Georginio Wijnaldum, while Firmino's lack of confidence showed as he tried to tee up Sadio Mane rather than go for an open goal from a narrow angle.

Liverpool's breakthrough finally came three minutes into the second period when Alexander-Arnold was deemed not to have run the ball out of play before his cross was turned by Firmino into the path of Jones to slot home the opening goal.

The same two players were involved again for the second as this time the Brazilian's shot took a huge deflection off Bryan.

Firmino was denied his first goal in seven games with the goal credited to the defender.

"He had a goal," said Klopp. "For him it counts, if it's not in the stats, I don't care."

Andy Robertson and Salah were guilty of passing up more clear-cut chances that could have given the scoreline the reflection Liverpool's dominance deserved.

Sheffield United are still 15 points adrift of safety at the bottom of the table and manager Chris Wilder admitted his side lacked the quality to challenge even a depleted Liverpool.

"You have to have your best players available and be at the top of your form and unfortunately we are not," said Wilder.

"We had a right go but lacked quality and strength in depth. You need a bit more in this division because it's brutal and it exposes you."

Jurgen Klopp believes Liverpool can prove the doubters that have written their season off wrong after snapping a four-game Premier League losing streak to win 2-0 at Sheffield United on Sunday.

Jurgen Klopp believes Liverpool can prove the doubters that have written their season off wrong after snapping a four-game Premier League losing streak to win 2-0 at Sheffield United on Sunday. The English champions' title defence has been decimated by injuries and they face a battle just to qualify for next season's Champions League via a top-four finish. Klopp's men remain in sixth, but are now just two points behind fourth-placed West Ham and can leapfrog Chelsea in fifth when the Blues visit Anfield on Thursday. "Plenty of people have written us off. That's fine," said Klopp. "With all the problems we have had we're still around the exciting places." Captain Jordan Henderson has been added to Liverpool's long-term injury list, while goalkeeper Alisson Becker was absent after he lost his father to a swimming accident in Brazil this week. - 'We're still there' - But the Championship-bound Blades proved the perfect opponents for Klopp's men to restore some confidence as Curtis Jones's second-half strike and Kean Bryan's own goal got the Reds back to winning ways. "This was about us showing we're still there," added Klopp. "We play Chelsea on Thursday, we have to show it again. We have to win football games, we know that. There's no way into the Champions League without results." With Alisson's understudy Caoimhin Kelleher also absent due to injury, Liverpool's third-choice goalkeeper Adrian started in the Premier League for the first time since conceding nine goals in two games in October to Aston Villa and Everton. However, the much-maligned Spaniard made an important early save to prevent David McGoldrick giving Sheffield United a shock lead. Most of the action was taking place down the other end as Aaron Ramsdale brilliantly denied Roberto Firmino, who should have teed up Jones for a tap-in. The former Bournemouth stopper also did well to block from Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Georginio Wijnaldum, while Firmino's lack of confidence showed as he tried to tee up Sadio Mane rather than go for an open goal from a narrow angle. Liverpool's breakthrough finally came three minutes into the second period when Alexander-Arnold was deemed not to have run the ball out of play before his cross was turned by Firmino into the path of Jones to slot home the opening goal. The same two players were involved again for the second as this time the Brazilian's shot took a huge deflection off Bryan. Firmino was denied his first goal in seven games with the goal credited to the defender. "He had a goal," said Klopp. "For him it counts, if it's not in the stats, I don't care." Andy Robertson and Salah were guilty of passing up more clear-cut chances that could have given the scoreline the reflection Liverpool's dominance deserved. Sheffield United are still 15 points adrift of safety at the bottom of the table and manager Chris Wilder admitted his side lacked the quality to challenge even a depleted Liverpool. "You have to have your best players available and be at the top of your form and unfortunately we are not," said Wilder. "We had a right go but lacked quality and strength in depth. You need a bit more in this division because it's brutal and it exposes you."

'Written off' Liverpool still ready to fight - Klopp

Jurgen Klopp slammed Liverpool's sloppy defending after Everton won at Anfield for the first time since 1999 with a 2-0 victory in Saturday's Merseyside derby.

Klopp's side were punished for mistakes at the back by Ozan Kabak and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Kabak was caught out by Richarlison for Everton's third minute opener and Alexander-Arnold conceded the 83rd minute penalty converted by Gylfi Sigurdsson.

Liverpool have lost four successive leagues games at Anfield for the first time since 1923 and Reds boss Klopp had no excuses for the troubled champions' latest flop.

"It is (tough to take) but we conceded this early goal which was completely unnecessary and have to defend it better," he said.

Klopp was also frustrated by Liverpool's failure to take the chances that came their way in a typically frantic derby.

"We had to chase the game and did it well creative wise, we created some in the first half and even more in the second half but we did not finish our situations off," he said.

"We made one mistake in the first half and they used it, I don't like to talk today about the good stuff because we lose the game and we feel that deeply, I have to use it tomorrow and it is our lifeline to keep going.&nbsp;

"We have to improve on the finishing stuff and then we will win football games."

Liverpool have now lost four in a row in the league and sit three points adrift of the top four after a first defeat against Everton since 2010.

Missing out on Champions League qualification would be an incredible fall from grace after they won the title for the first time in 30 years last term.

"Decisive margins, to score a goal you have to create a situation and finish it off," Klopp said.&nbsp;

"There is no alternative but to keep going. You concede which is not cool, lose Jordan Henderson which is not cool and I feel the boys dealt with it quite well, could they deal with it better? Maybe. We will keep going.

"We stand here having lost 2-0. I know how important it is. We feel it deep inside. But from tomorrow on I have to use all the good stuff.&nbsp;

"These good situations are the guarantee that we can change it but the decisive moments we have to change as well."

The potentially long-term injury to Henderson is the latest fitness blow for Klopp, who is already without Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Joel Matip and Fabinho.

"It's in the region of his groin and abductor. It's not good. It's how it is. The rest we will know tomorrow," Klopp said.

Jurgen Klopp slammed Liverpool's sloppy defending after Everton won at Anfield for the first time since 1999 with a 2-0 victory in Saturday's Merseyside derby. Klopp's side were punished for mistakes at the back by Ozan Kabak and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Jurgen Klopp slammed Liverpool's sloppy defending after Everton won at Anfield for the first time since 1999 with a 2-0 victory in Saturday's Merseyside derby. Klopp's side were punished for mistakes at the back by Ozan Kabak and Trent Alexander-Arnold. Kabak was caught out by Richarlison for Everton's third minute opener and Alexander-Arnold conceded the 83rd minute penalty converted by Gylfi Sigurdsson. Liverpool have lost four successive leagues games at Anfield for the first time since 1923 and Reds boss Klopp had no excuses for the troubled champions' latest flop. "It is (tough to take) but we conceded this early goal which was completely unnecessary and have to defend it better," he said. Klopp was also frustrated by Liverpool's failure to take the chances that came their way in a typically frantic derby. "We had to chase the game and did it well creative wise, we created some in the first half and even more in the second half but we did not finish our situations off," he said. "We made one mistake in the first half and they used it, I don't like to talk today about the good stuff because we lose the game and we feel that deeply, I have to use it tomorrow and it is our lifeline to keep going. "We have to improve on the finishing stuff and then we will win football games." Liverpool have now lost four in a row in the league and sit three points adrift of the top four after a first defeat against Everton since 2010. Missing out on Champions League qualification would be an incredible fall from grace after they won the title for the first time in 30 years last term. "Decisive margins, to score a goal you have to create a situation and finish it off," Klopp said. "There is no alternative but to keep going. You concede which is not cool, lose Jordan Henderson which is not cool and I feel the boys dealt with it quite well, could they deal with it better? Maybe. We will keep going. "We stand here having lost 2-0. I know how important it is. We feel it deep inside. But from tomorrow on I have to use all the good stuff. "These good situations are the guarantee that we can change it but the decisive moments we have to change as well." The potentially long-term injury to Henderson is the latest fitness blow for Klopp, who is already without Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Joel Matip and Fabinho. "It's in the region of his groin and abductor. It's not good. It's how it is. The rest we will know tomorrow," Klopp said.

Klopp blasts sloppy Liverpool as Everton party like its 1999

Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool won't focus on catching Manchester City when he reviews what went wrong in their disastrous Premier League title defence.

City are 10 points clear at the top of the table and Liverpool boss Klopp has been forced to concede the champions are out of the title race.

The injury-plagued Reds are languishing 16 points behind City in sixth place after three successive league defeats.

But Klopp, whose team were thrashed 4-1 by Pep Guardiola's men recently, is adamant City are not going to be the driving force behind his own plans for improvement next term.

"We do not have to think about that now because we do not play them any more this year, probably. Maybe in the Champions League," Klopp told reporters on Friday.

"It was never the case where we thought 'how can we overtake City', or 'how can we become the finest team in English football again'?

"We just wanted to be the best version of ourselves. We have that chance again. If that is good enough, it is good enough. If another team is better, that's how sport works.

"We cannot do more than be the best version of ourselves and that is what we will try again as a team. For that we need a little bit more luck, of course. Slightly more luck with injuries and we can get closer to that."

Klopp has lost all three of his senior central defenders to injury, with first-choice pair Virgil Van Dijk and Joe Gomez both suffering long-term problems within a couple of weeks of each other two months into the campaign.

Thiago Alcantara also missed 16 matches with an injury sustained in October, barely a month after arriving.

"We all agree, and I'm sure Pep would say that, in a normal season for both teams we would not be 16 points away. But we are. That's how it is. We accept it," Klopp said.

"This season it is not our concern how close we get to City. It is how far we can go up the table. That is enough work to do."

Having managed just two wins in their last 10 league matches, Saturday's visit of Everton - three points behind their local rivals with a game in hand - for the 238th Merseyside derby is a crucial one.

Liverpool have not lost to Everton at Anfield since September 1999, but their formidable home form has deserted them and they have gone five matches without a win.

October's derby at Goodison saw Thiago sidelined for two-and-a-half months and Van Dijk's season prematurely ended due to a reckless Jordan Pickford tackle.

And while Klopp said there would be no payback from his players, he does want them to be "emotional".

"We always are emotional. That is our way to play. What the other team does, I have no influence. Nothing to say about that," he said.

Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool won't focus on catching Manchester City when he reviews what went wrong in their disastrous Premier League title defence. City are 10 points clear at the top of the table and Liverpool boss Klopp has been forced to concede the champions are out of the title race.

Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool won't focus on catching Manchester City when he reviews what went wrong in their disastrous Premier League title defence. City are 10 points clear at the top of the table and Liverpool boss Klopp has been forced to concede the champions are out of the title race. The injury-plagued Reds are languishing 16 points behind City in sixth place after three successive league defeats. But Klopp, whose team were thrashed 4-1 by Pep Guardiola's men recently, is adamant City are not going to be the driving force behind his own plans for improvement next term. "We do not have to think about that now because we do not play them any more this year, probably. Maybe in the Champions League," Klopp told reporters on Friday. "It was never the case where we thought 'how can we overtake City', or 'how can we become the finest team in English football again'? "We just wanted to be the best version of ourselves. We have that chance again. If that is good enough, it is good enough. If another team is better, that's how sport works. "We cannot do more than be the best version of ourselves and that is what we will try again as a team. For that we need a little bit more luck, of course. Slightly more luck with injuries and we can get closer to that." Klopp has lost all three of his senior central defenders to injury, with first-choice pair Virgil Van Dijk and Joe Gomez both suffering long-term problems within a couple of weeks of each other two months into the campaign. Thiago Alcantara also missed 16 matches with an injury sustained in October, barely a month after arriving. "We all agree, and I'm sure Pep would say that, in a normal season for both teams we would not be 16 points away. But we are. That's how it is. We accept it," Klopp said. "This season it is not our concern how close we get to City. It is how far we can go up the table. That is enough work to do." Having managed just two wins in their last 10 league matches, Saturday's visit of Everton - three points behind their local rivals with a game in hand - for the 238th Merseyside derby is a crucial one. Liverpool have not lost to Everton at Anfield since September 1999, but their formidable home form has deserted them and they have gone five matches without a win. October's derby at Goodison saw Thiago sidelined for two-and-a-half months and Van Dijk's season prematurely ended due to a reckless Jordan Pickford tackle. And while Klopp said there would be no payback from his players, he does want them to be "emotional". "We always are emotional. That is our way to play. What the other team does, I have no influence. Nothing to say about that," he said.

Klopp won't focus on Man City when Liverpool review title flop

As Manchester City power towards the Premier League title, the question is not whether Arsenal can stall the leaders, but is this Pep Guardiola's finest achievement in his Etihad reign?

Liverpool were expected to push City all the way but the champions have stumbled so badly that their only concern going into the Merseyside derby against Everton is getting back into the top four.

Chelsea, in action at Southampton, hold that lucrative fourth Champions League berth thanks to an impressive unbeaten start to Thomas Tuchel's reign.

<h2>Guardiola's masterpiece</h2>

When the final whistle blew on Manchester City's 17th successive victory in all competitions, Pep Guardiola was one step closer to the most impressive feat of his five years in the Premier League.&nbsp;

City's composed 3-1 dismissal of Everton at Goodison Park on Wednesday left them 10 points clear of second-placed Manchester United with 14 games left.

They are the first English top-flight side to begin a calendar year with 10 successive league wins.&nbsp;

Guardiola has already won two Premier League titles, three League Cups and the FA Cup with City.&nbsp;

But finding a way to navigate through City's poor start to the season while also dealing with the loss of all-time leading scorer Sergio Aguero for most of the campaign and a significant Covid-19 outbreak in the camp burnishes his legacy.

Guardiola's astute tactical tweaks have been key to the revival, but he knows the dangers of resting on his laurels during a hectic programme.

"Winning 10 straight games at the start of the calendar year is nice but next is Arsenal," he said. "It's better you don't see the schedule, otherwise you get depressed. But at the same time, it's a beautiful challenge."

<h2>Liverpool revenge mission</h2>

As Virgil van Dijk lay in agony on the Goodison Park turf, Liverpool's season began a painful decline that still haunts them five months later.

Van Dijk has not played since suffering knee damage after an ugly challenge from Everton keeper Jordan Pickford during that 2-2 draw in October.

The absence of the imperious Dutch centre-back has been the most obvious reason for Liverpool's unexpected collapse as they lost their long unbeaten home league record and fell out of the title race.

Ravaged by injuries and suffering from burnout after their first title in 30 years, Liverpool and their manager Jurgen Klopp look so overwrought that rumours circulated after last weekend's loss at Leicester that the German was ready to resign.

Klopp brushed that off and Liverpool took a small step on the road to recovery when they won 2-0 against Leipzig in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Tuesday.

Saturday's Merseyside derby at Anfield will pose an intriguing test of sixth-placed Liverpool's mettle.

Will the chance to avenge that season-defining meeting earlier this season re-light their fire or can Everton deal another blow to their rivals' top-four hopes?

After three successive league defeats, a cautious Klopp said: "We are not children anymore, so we don't think everything is fine because we won one game. It is much more important that we played good football again."

<h2>Tuchel impresses</h2>

Thomas Tuchel is enjoying a blissful honeymoon period as Chelsea's manager prepares to take his team to misfiring Southampton looking for a sixth consecutive victory.

Every manager who marries his fortunes to Chelsea's demanding owner Roman Abramovich eventually gets divorce papers, but for now Tuchel is defying his reputation as a combative personality capable of starting a fight in an empty room.

The former Paris Saint-Germain boss, who replaced Frank Lampard in January, has won over his new players by offering a clean slate to some who had been exiled by his predecessor, while impressing others with astute game-plans and rigorous training methods.

The results have been immediate, with Chelsea back up to fourth after going unbeaten in Tuchel's six matches in all competitions.

Fixtures (all times GMT):

Friday

Wolves v Leeds (2000)

Saturday

Southampton v Chelsea (1230), Burnley v West Brom (1500), Liverpool v Everton (1730), Fulham v Sheffield United (2000)

Sunday

West Ham v Tottenham (1200), Aston Villa v Leicester (1400), Arsenal v Man City (1630), &nbsp;Manchester United v Newcastle (1900)

Monday

Brighton v Crystal Palace (2000)

As Manchester City power towards the Premier League title, the question is not whether Arsenal can stall the leaders, but is this Pep Guardiola's finest achievement in his Etihad reign?

As Manchester City power towards the Premier League title, the question is not whether Arsenal can stall the leaders, but is this Pep Guardiola's finest achievement in his Etihad reign? Liverpool were expected to push City all the way but the champions have stumbled so badly that their only concern going into the Merseyside derby against Everton is getting back into the top four. Chelsea, in action at Southampton, hold that lucrative fourth Champions League berth thanks to an impressive unbeaten start to Thomas Tuchel's reign. Guardiola's masterpiece When the final whistle blew on Manchester City's 17th successive victory in all competitions, Pep Guardiola was one step closer to the most impressive feat of his five years in the Premier League. City's composed 3-1 dismissal of Everton at Goodison Park on Wednesday left them 10 points clear of second-placed Manchester United with 14 games left. They are the first English top-flight side to begin a calendar year with 10 successive league wins. Guardiola has already won two Premier League titles, three League Cups and the FA Cup with City. But finding a way to navigate through City's poor start to the season while also dealing with the loss of all-time leading scorer Sergio Aguero for most of the campaign and a significant Covid-19 outbreak in the camp burnishes his legacy. Guardiola's astute tactical tweaks have been key to the revival, but he knows the dangers of resting on his laurels during a hectic programme. "Winning 10 straight games at the start of the calendar year is nice but next is Arsenal," he said. "It's better you don't see the schedule, otherwise you get depressed. But at the same time, it's a beautiful challenge." Liverpool revenge mission As Virgil van Dijk lay in agony on the Goodison Park turf, Liverpool's season began a painful decline that still haunts them five months later. Van Dijk has not played since suffering knee damage after an ugly challenge from Everton keeper Jordan Pickford during that 2-2 draw in October. The absence of the imperious Dutch centre-back has been the most obvious reason for Liverpool's unexpected collapse as they lost their long unbeaten home league record and fell out of the title race. Ravaged by injuries and suffering from burnout after their first title in 30 years, Liverpool and their manager Jurgen Klopp look so overwrought that rumours circulated after last weekend's loss at Leicester that the German was ready to resign. Klopp brushed that off and Liverpool took a small step on the road to recovery when they won 2-0 against Leipzig in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Tuesday. Saturday's Merseyside derby at Anfield will pose an intriguing test of sixth-placed Liverpool's mettle. Will the chance to avenge that season-defining meeting earlier this season re-light their fire or can Everton deal another blow to their rivals' top-four hopes? After three successive league defeats, a cautious Klopp said: "We are not children anymore, so we don't think everything is fine because we won one game. It is much more important that we played good football again." Tuchel impresses Thomas Tuchel is enjoying a blissful honeymoon period as Chelsea's manager prepares to take his team to misfiring Southampton looking for a sixth consecutive victory. Every manager who marries his fortunes to Chelsea's demanding owner Roman Abramovich eventually gets divorce papers, but for now Tuchel is defying his reputation as a combative personality capable of starting a fight in an empty room. The former Paris Saint-Germain boss, who replaced Frank Lampard in January, has won over his new players by offering a clean slate to some who had been exiled by his predecessor, while impressing others with astute game-plans and rigorous training methods. The results have been immediate, with Chelsea back up to fourth after going unbeaten in Tuchel's six matches in all competitions. Fixtures (all times GMT): Friday Wolves v Leeds (2000) Saturday Southampton v Chelsea (1230), Burnley v West Brom (1500), Liverpool v Everton (1730), Fulham v Sheffield United (2000) Sunday West Ham v Tottenham (1200), Aston Villa v Leicester (1400), Arsenal v Man City (1630), Manchester United v Newcastle (1900) Monday Brighton v Crystal Palace (2000)

Guardiola inspires Man City masterclass, Liverpool face Everton test

Manchester City's relentless march towards reclaiming the Premier League title continued with a 3-0 romp over Tottenham Hotspur after champions Liverpool capitulated at Leicester City to suffer a third consecutive defeat on Saturday.

In-form Ilkay Gundogan scored twice for City who have now won 11 Premier League games in a row.

The German took his tally to 11 league goals this season as he struck twice in the second half after Rodri's first-half penalty, following a foul on Gundogan by Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, had given Pep Guardiola's side the lead.

Victory put City on 53 points, seven clear of second-placed Leicester, and with a game in hand.

The only slight worry for Guardiola, whose side have won 16 times in a row in all competitions, was that Gundogan was substituted in the 69th because of a tight groin.

Although with striker Sergio Aguero among the City substitutes after an 11-game absence due to COVID-19 it left Guardiola a happy man.

"It was well deserved, they hit the post and that can turn the game but the way we wanted to play was there," Guardiola, said. "Tottenham have special quality, we have played well against them in the past and lost 2-0."

That 2-0 defeat at Tottenham in November put Jose Mourinho's side top of the league but the north London club's form has disappeared and they were outplayed on Saturday despite Harry Kane hitting the post with a free kick when it was 0-0.

Tottenham are ninth after losing four of their last five league games and Mourinho was left grasping at straws.

"We were punished by what I call the modern penalty," Mourinho said. "The penalty you cannot deny there was a contact but now in modern football every contact is a penalty."

Fourth-placed Liverpool's defeat left them 13 points behind City having played a game more and they are now in danger of dropping out of the top four.

Mohamed Salah gave Liverpool the lead at Leicester in the 68th minute but Juergen Klopp's side then imploded again, conceding three times in seven minutes, having conceded four times in the second half against City last week.

After VAR had overturned a penalty awarded to Leicester, James Maddison equalised from the subsequent free kick then keeper Alisson, who made two glaring errors in Liverpool's loss to City last weekend, cost his side again.

The Brazilian raced out of his goal to meet a long ball over the top but collided with debutant Ozan Kabak and Jamie Vardy walked the ball into an open goal.

Harvey Barnes made sure of the win four minutes later as Liverpool lost three league games in a row for the first time since 2014 when Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers was in charge.

"I don't think we can close that gap this year, to be honest," Klopp said of the gap to City.

"The situation is not easy, that's clear, but it's our situation and how it always is with your own situation, you have to sort it yourself and that's what we will do."

Burnley's 3-0 win at Crystal Palace moved them 11 points above the relegation places.

Johann Berg Gudmundsson put the Clarets in front and Jay Rodriguez headed in his first Premier League goal of the season to double their lead. Matt Lowton added a third after the break.

Aston Villa moved up to eighth place after a 0-0 draw at Brighton and Hove Albion.

Manchester City's relentless march towards reclaiming the Premier League title continued with a 3-0 romp over Tottenham Hotspur after champions Liverpool capitulated at Leicester City to suffer a third consecutive defeat on Saturday.

Manchester City's relentless march towards reclaiming the Premier League title continued with a 3-0 romp over Tottenham Hotspur after champions Liverpool capitulated at Leicester City to suffer a third consecutive defeat on Saturday. In-form Ilkay Gundogan scored twice for City who have now won 11 Premier League games in a row. The German took his tally to 11 league goals this season as he struck twice in the second half after Rodri's first-half penalty, following a foul on Gundogan by Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, had given Pep Guardiola's side the lead. Victory put City on 53 points, seven clear of second-placed Leicester, and with a game in hand. The only slight worry for Guardiola, whose side have won 16 times in a row in all competitions, was that Gundogan was substituted in the 69th because of a tight groin. Although with striker Sergio Aguero among the City substitutes after an 11-game absence due to COVID-19 it left Guardiola a happy man. "It was well deserved, they hit the post and that can turn the game but the way we wanted to play was there," Guardiola, said. "Tottenham have special quality, we have played well against them in the past and lost 2-0." That 2-0 defeat at Tottenham in November put Jose Mourinho's side top of the league but the north London club's form has disappeared and they were outplayed on Saturday despite Harry Kane hitting the post with a free kick when it was 0-0. Tottenham are ninth after losing four of their last five league games and Mourinho was left grasping at straws. "We were punished by what I call the modern penalty," Mourinho said. "The penalty you cannot deny there was a contact but now in modern football every contact is a penalty." Fourth-placed Liverpool's defeat left them 13 points behind City having played a game more and they are now in danger of dropping out of the top four. Mohamed Salah gave Liverpool the lead at Leicester in the 68th minute but Juergen Klopp's side then imploded again, conceding three times in seven minutes, having conceded four times in the second half against City last week. After VAR had overturned a penalty awarded to Leicester, James Maddison equalised from the subsequent free kick then keeper Alisson, who made two glaring errors in Liverpool's loss to City last weekend, cost his side again. The Brazilian raced out of his goal to meet a long ball over the top but collided with debutant Ozan Kabak and Jamie Vardy walked the ball into an open goal. Harvey Barnes made sure of the win four minutes later as Liverpool lost three league games in a row for the first time since 2014 when Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers was in charge. "I don't think we can close that gap this year, to be honest," Klopp said of the gap to City. "The situation is not easy, that's clear, but it's our situation and how it always is with your own situation, you have to sort it yourself and that's what we will do." Burnley's 3-0 win at Crystal Palace moved them 11 points above the relegation places. Johann Berg Gudmundsson put the Clarets in front and Jay Rodriguez headed in his first Premier League goal of the season to double their lead. Matt Lowton added a third after the break. Aston Villa moved up to eighth place after a 0-0 draw at Brighton and Hove Albion.

Premier League: Relentless Man City march on, Liverpool lose again

Jurgen Klopp's mother Elisabeth breathed her last at the age of 81 on Wednesday. The Liverpool manager will be unable to attend his mother's funeral due to COVID-19 restrictions on travel in Germany but Klopp paid a heartfelt tribute to his mother after her demise.&nbsp;

Klopp said that "she meant everything" to him and is keen to hold a "wonderful" memorial to celebrate her mother Elisabeth's life when the situation surrounding the coronavirus allows.&nbsp;

But Klopp maintains he is keen to hold a "wonderful, fitting" memorial to celebrate her life when the circumstances allow.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-munich-ceos-messi-of-africa-praise-for-mohamed-salah-fuels-transfer-speculation-362679" hreflang="en">Bayern Munich CEO's 'Messi of Africa' praise for Mohamed Salah fuels transfer speculation</a>

"She meant everything to me. She was a proper mum in the best sense of the word," Klopp told German newspaper&nbsp;Schwarzwaelder&nbsp;Bote.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"As a believer in Christ, I know that she is now in a better place. Owing to these terrible times, I can’t be at the funeral, [but] as soon as circumstances allow, we’ll hold a wonderful, fitting memorial for her.”&nbsp;

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Elisabeth married Klopp's father Norbert in the year 1960. The couple have three children – Stefanie, Isolde and Jurgen. Klopp's father Norbert passed away in 2000 at the age of 66 with&nbsp;the Red manager having earlier revealed that he regrets his father not witnessing his success as a top coach in the footballing world.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/atletico-madrid-v-chelsea-champions-league-match-moved-to-bucharest-uefa-362652" hreflang="en">Atletico Madrid v Chelsea Champions League match moved to Bucharest: UEFA</a>

Meanwhile, Liverpool will next face Leicester City at the Kings Power Stadium on February 13 and the Reds would be looking to get back to winning ways as a fitting tribute to Klopp's mother Elisabeth.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Liverpool are going through a two-match losing streak with both the defeats coming at the Anfield - against Manchester City, and Brighton &amp; Hove Albion.&nbsp;

Jurgen Klopp's mother Elisabeth breathed her last at the age of 81 on Wednesday. The Liverpool manager will be unable to attend his mother's funeral due to COVID-19 restrictions on travel in Germany but Klopp paid a heartfelt tribute to his mother after her demise.

Jurgen Klopp's mother Elisabeth breathed her last at the age of 81 on Wednesday. The Liverpool manager will be unable to attend his mother's funeral due to COVID-19 restrictions on travel in Germany but Klopp paid a heartfelt tribute to his mother after her demise. Klopp said that "she meant everything" to him and is keen to hold a "wonderful" memorial to celebrate her mother Elisabeth's life when the situation surrounding the coronavirus allows. But Klopp maintains he is keen to hold a "wonderful, fitting" memorial to celebrate her life when the circumstances allow. ALSO READ: Bayern Munich CEO's 'Messi of Africa' praise for Mohamed Salah fuels transfer speculation "She meant everything to me. She was a proper mum in the best sense of the word," Klopp told German newspaper Schwarzwaelder Bote. "As a believer in Christ, I know that she is now in a better place. Owing to these terrible times, I can’t be at the funeral, [but] as soon as circumstances allow, we’ll hold a wonderful, fitting memorial for her.” You’ll Never Walk Alone, Jürgen ❤️ pic.twitter.com/mjgSmXZWgn — Liverpool FC (@LFC) February 10, 2021 × Elisabeth married Klopp's father Norbert in the year 1960. The couple have three children – Stefanie, Isolde and Jurgen. Klopp's father Norbert passed away in 2000 at the age of 66 with the Red manager having earlier revealed that he regrets his father not witnessing his success as a top coach in the footballing world. ALSO READ: Atletico Madrid v Chelsea Champions League match moved to Bucharest: UEFA Meanwhile, Liverpool will next face Leicester City at the Kings Power Stadium on February 13 and the Reds would be looking to get back to winning ways as a fitting tribute to Klopp's mother Elisabeth. Liverpool are going through a two-match losing streak with both the defeats coming at the Anfield - against Manchester City, and Brighton & Hove Albion.

'Meant everything to me': Jurgen Klopp pays emotional tribute to mother after her death

Former Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane has described Liverpool as "bad champions" after the defending <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> champions&nbsp;lost the third game in a row at the Anfield to skittle off in the title race.&nbsp;

Manchester City, after missing a first-half penalty, netted four times in the second half to win the match by 4-1&nbsp;to go 10 points clear of the Reds with a match in hand.&nbsp;

Keane, who won the league seven times with Manchester United, slammed Jurgen Klopp's men as he said that the Reds are making a lot of excuses while branding them "bad champions".&nbsp;

He said: "They are making a lot of excuses. To me they’ve been bad champions and I don’t just mean today.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"You can lose a game of football but there is a way to get beaten. I don’t see that and I think maybe they have all believed the hype over the last year or two.&nbsp;

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"We spoke about will there be some sort of drop-off, but they are playing for a big team in Liverpool. It’s as if they have won the league last year and they have all got a bit carried away and believed the hype, but in my mindset when you have won a league title, the next challenge was, 'Can we do it again?’," Keane told Sky Sports.

While Liverpool have been missing key players in Virgil Van Dijk and Joe Gomez, goalkeeper Allison Becker's two costly mistake didn't help the cause against ruthless Man City, who look on course to register yet another Premier League title&nbsp;triumph.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Keane was particularly irked with Klopp saying that maybe Allison had a&nbsp;cold feet&nbsp;and hence, ended up making mistakes which resulted in two Man City goals.&nbsp;

Keane continued: "You could say it is a one-off, a freak season, it is corona… Just get on with it and perform like champions – you are Liverpool Football Club. Keep performing like that and it will be another 30 years before you win the league title, trust me.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/four-goal-man-city-crush-liverpool-kane-stars-for-spurs-362068" hreflang="en">Four-goal Man City crush Liverpool, Kane stars for Spurs</a>

"If everyone had all their players it would be fantastic, but if you want to look at Man City for a moment and the run they have been on, you could say they are missing two of their best players (Sergio Aguero and Kevin de Bruyne).&nbsp;

"But they have come to Liverpool and Liverpool had a strong team out. I know the two&nbsp;centre-halves are missing, but they still had their best attacking players on the pitch, their best goalkeeper available, they still have international players in midfield.&nbsp;

"After the game Jurgen Klopp is talking about the goalkeeper’s feet being cold. I know it is tongue in cheek a little bit, but it is excuses after excuses."&nbsp;

Manchester City have 50 points to their name after 22 points and are five points clear of second-placed Manchester United, who are with 45 points after 23 matches.&nbsp;

Former Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane has described Liverpool as "bad champions" after the defending Premier League champions lost the third game in a row at the Anfield to skittle off in the title race.

Former Manchester United midfielder Roy Keane has described Liverpool as "bad champions" after the defending Premier League champions lost the third game in a row at the Anfield to skittle off in the title race. Manchester City, after missing a first-half penalty, netted four times in the second half to win the match by 4-1 to go 10 points clear of the Reds with a match in hand. Keane, who won the league seven times with Manchester United, slammed Jurgen Klopp's men as he said that the Reds are making a lot of excuses while branding them "bad champions". He said: "They are making a lot of excuses. To me they’ve been bad champions and I don’t just mean today. "You can lose a game of football but there is a way to get beaten. I don’t see that and I think maybe they have all believed the hype over the last year or two. ALSO READ: 'Exceptional' Ibrahimovic breaks 500-goal mark to keep AC Milan top "We spoke about will there be some sort of drop-off, but they are playing for a big team in Liverpool. It’s as if they have won the league last year and they have all got a bit carried away and believed the hype, but in my mindset when you have won a league title, the next challenge was, 'Can we do it again?’," Keane told Sky Sports. While Liverpool have been missing key players in Virgil Van Dijk and Joe Gomez, goalkeeper Allison Becker's two costly mistake didn't help the cause against ruthless Man City, who look on course to register yet another Premier League title triumph. Keane was particularly irked with Klopp saying that maybe Allison had a cold feet and hence, ended up making mistakes which resulted in two Man City goals. Keane continued: "You could say it is a one-off, a freak season, it is corona… Just get on with it and perform like champions – you are Liverpool Football Club. Keep performing like that and it will be another 30 years before you win the league title, trust me. ALSO READ: Four-goal Man City crush Liverpool, Kane stars for Spurs "If everyone had all their players it would be fantastic, but if you want to look at Man City for a moment and the run they have been on, you could say they are missing two of their best players (Sergio Aguero and Kevin de Bruyne). "But they have come to Liverpool and Liverpool had a strong team out. I know the two centre-halves are missing, but they still had their best attacking players on the pitch, their best goalkeeper available, they still have international players in midfield. "After the game Jurgen Klopp is talking about the goalkeeper’s feet being cold. I know it is tongue in cheek a little bit, but it is excuses after excuses." Manchester City have 50 points to their name after 22 points and are five points clear of second-placed Manchester United, who are with 45 points after 23 matches.

Roy Keane brands Liverpool as 'bad champions' after Man City drubbing

RB Liepizig will play Liverpool in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie in Budapest after German authorities denied the English side entry into the country due to COVID-19 protocols, UEFA said on Sunday. 
 
RB Leipzig were due to host Juergen Klopp`s side on Feb. 16 at the Red Bull Arena but Germany has banned all arrivals from areas affected by COVID-19 mutations until at least Feb. 17, with the only exceptions made for German citizens or residents. 
 
"UEFA can confirm that the Champions League Round of 16 first leg match between RB Leipzig and Liverpool will now take place at Puskas Arena in Budapest," it said in a statement https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0266-118507f7b277-e0b239dfd239-1000--uefa-confirms-leipzig-vs-liverpool-venue-change. 
 
"UEFA would like to thank RB Leipzig and Liverpool FC for their close cooperation and assistance in finding a solution to the issue at hand, as well as the Hungarian Football Federation for their support and agreeing to host the match in question." 
 
Germany`s Borussia Moenchengladbach are also considering their options for the first leg of their tie against Manchester City on Feb. 24 should the ban be extended.

RB Liepizig will play Liverpool in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie in Budapest after German authorities denied the English side entry into the country due to COVID-19 protocols, UEFA said on Sunday.

RB Liepizig will play Liverpool in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie in Budapest after German authorities denied the English side entry into the country due to COVID-19 protocols, UEFA said on Sunday. RB Leipzig were due to host Juergen Klopp`s side on Feb. 16 at the Red Bull Arena but Germany has banned all arrivals from areas affected by COVID-19 mutations until at least Feb. 17, with the only exceptions made for German citizens or residents. "UEFA can confirm that the Champions League Round of 16 first leg match between RB Leipzig and Liverpool will now take place at Puskas Arena in Budapest," it said in a statement https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0266-118507f7b277-e0b239dfd239-1000--uefa-confirms-leipzig-vs-liverpool-venue-change. "UEFA would like to thank RB Leipzig and Liverpool FC for their close cooperation and assistance in finding a solution to the issue at hand, as well as the Hungarian Football Federation for their support and agreeing to host the match in question." Germany`s Borussia Moenchengladbach are also considering their options for the first leg of their tie against Manchester City on Feb. 24 should the ban be extended.

Leipzig v Liverpool Champions League game to be played in Budapest

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has admitted that it is unlikely that the new signings of Ozan Kabak and Ben Davies will be playing the upcoming Premier League clash against Manchester City on Sunday.

Liverpool will square off against Premier League leaders City at Anfield on Sunday and the Reds have to win in order to remain in with a chance to lift the 2020-21 title.

Klopp`s side currently sits at the fourth position, seven points behind table-toppers City.

"Of course everything helps. Now we have different options and that`s good. [It is] the best news we could get. Now we have to make sure the new-boys get all the information they need as quickly as possible," Goal.com quoted Klopp as saying.

"In another position you could say `come on, play, try, we will adapt to you` but in the defence, the things we do are really clear; it`s about holding the line, it`s about dropping in the right moment. There are a lot of things [we do] that teams do differently. We will see how quickly we can do it. Today is an important session for that, and then we will see what we will make," he added.

Liverpool may have key players return for the clash against Manchester City. Goalkeeper Alisson Becker and forward Sadio Mane returned to training on Friday having missed the midweek loss to Brighton.

The Reds are coming on the back of losing back-to-back home games for the first time since 2012.

"We will try to do the right things. These are special games. That`s how it is. But in the end, it`s only three points," said Klopp.

"Obviously, City are in a slightly different moment to us, and we should not forget that, but one thing is clear; if you don`t defend on the highest level against City then you don`t even have to think about getting anything from the game," he added.&nbsp;

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has admitted that it is unlikely that the new signings of Ozan Kabak and Ben Davies will be playing the upcoming Premier League clash against Manchester City on Sunday.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has admitted that it is unlikely that the new signings of Ozan Kabak and Ben Davies will be playing the upcoming Premier League clash against Manchester City on Sunday. Liverpool will square off against Premier League leaders City at Anfield on Sunday and the Reds have to win in order to remain in with a chance to lift the 2020-21 title. Klopp`s side currently sits at the fourth position, seven points behind table-toppers City. "Of course everything helps. Now we have different options and that`s good. [It is] the best news we could get. Now we have to make sure the new-boys get all the information they need as quickly as possible," Goal.com quoted Klopp as saying. "In another position you could say `come on, play, try, we will adapt to you` but in the defence, the things we do are really clear; it`s about holding the line, it`s about dropping in the right moment. There are a lot of things [we do] that teams do differently. We will see how quickly we can do it. Today is an important session for that, and then we will see what we will make," he added. Liverpool may have key players return for the clash against Manchester City. Goalkeeper Alisson Becker and forward Sadio Mane returned to training on Friday having missed the midweek loss to Brighton. The Reds are coming on the back of losing back-to-back home games for the first time since 2012. "We will try to do the right things. These are special games. That`s how it is. But in the end, it`s only three points," said Klopp. "Obviously, City are in a slightly different moment to us, and we should not forget that, but one thing is clear; if you don`t defend on the highest level against City then you don`t even have to think about getting anything from the game," he added.

Premier League: Klopp admits Davies, Kabak unlikely to play against Manchester City

Brighton condemned Liverpool to their second straight Premier League home defeat on Wednesday, winning 1-0 to leave the champions with a mountain to climb if they are going to retain their title.

Jurgen Klopp's men appeared to have turned the corner with impressive victories at Tottenham and West Ham after a five-match winless run.

But defeat to lowly Brighton at Anfield leaves them in fourth place, seven points behind leaders Manchester City, who also have a game in hand and look increasingly likely to win their third title in four years.

Liverpool's 68-game unbeaten home run in the Premier League was ended by Burnley last month and they have now lost consecutive league games at Anfield for the first time since 2012.

Troublingly for Klopp, his side have failed to score in three consecutive home league games for the first time since 1984.

Graham Potter's men executed their game plan to perfection, snuffing out Liverpool's dangermen and offering a threat up front.&nbsp;

The only goal of the game came in the 56th minute courtesy of a Steven Alzate strike.

Klopp, who must prepare his team for the daunting task of facing Pep Guardiola's Manchester City on Sunday, said his team were not mentally fresh.

"The only explanation now is that we are a fatigued team, mentally more or less," he told BT Sport. "That leads to not the maximum freshness in your legs.

"We had our moments but they deserved to win."

He added:&nbsp;"The only thing we can do is use the things that happen and learn from them. The solution is always the players. It has been a tough week and tonight it was not enough. City are flying and we have to find solutions."

<h2>- Defensive crisis -</h2>

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson was again drafted into central defence in the absence of any of the club's senior centre-backs, with new signing Ben Davies on the substitutes' bench.

Goalkeeper Alisson Becker was absent due to illness, meaning Caoimhin Kelleher made only his second Premier League appearance, and forward Sadio Mane was also missing.

Liverpool enjoyed the bulk of possession in the early stages but in-form Brighton were organised at the back and pushed forward when they could.

Mohamed Salah had a golden chance to give Liverpool the lead in the opening minutes when he collected a long ball from Henderson but put his shot over the bar.

Salah offered an occasional threat down the right but Liverpool looked short of ideas in the final third when faced with the massed blue shirts of Brighton.

The in-form visitors had a chance to take the lead midway through the first half when the ball fell to Dan Burn after Neal Maupay's shot was blocked but he skied over from close range.

Klopp's men went in at half-time having failed to muster a single shot on goal.

The second half shaped up like the first, with Liverpool probing but looking short of inspiration.

Instead it was Brighton who took the lead with the game's first shot on target.

Burn, on the left side of the Liverpool area, headed a cross-field ball back across goal and Alzate combined with Leandro Trossard to steer the ball into the net.

Klopp threw on Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Divock Origi for Georginio Wijnaldum and Xherdan Shaqiri as he sought a way back into the match.

Salah flashed a left-footed shot over after Trent Alexander-Arnold fizzed a ball across the area and Adam Webster produced a superb, muscular challenge to stop the Egypt forward in his tracks.

But Brighton were still threatening at the other end. Kelleher saved smartly from Pascal Gross and Trossard also forced a save.

The result lifts Brighton to 15th in the table, 10 points clear of the relegation zone.

"It's not an easy place to get points," said Potter. "They're a top team. We're just trying our best in this league.&nbsp;

"Every game we face a huge task. It's one for the supporters and everyone involved in the club. It's not often a club like us come here and win."

Brighton condemned Liverpool to their second straight Premier League home defeat on Wednesday, winning 1-0 to leave the champions with a mountain to climb if they are going to retain their title.

Brighton condemned Liverpool to their second straight Premier League home defeat on Wednesday, winning 1-0 to leave the champions with a mountain to climb if they are going to retain their title. Jurgen Klopp's men appeared to have turned the corner with impressive victories at Tottenham and West Ham after a five-match winless run. But defeat to lowly Brighton at Anfield leaves them in fourth place, seven points behind leaders Manchester City, who also have a game in hand and look increasingly likely to win their third title in four years. Liverpool's 68-game unbeaten home run in the Premier League was ended by Burnley last month and they have now lost consecutive league games at Anfield for the first time since 2012. Troublingly for Klopp, his side have failed to score in three consecutive home league games for the first time since 1984. Graham Potter's men executed their game plan to perfection, snuffing out Liverpool's dangermen and offering a threat up front. The only goal of the game came in the 56th minute courtesy of a Steven Alzate strike. Klopp, who must prepare his team for the daunting task of facing Pep Guardiola's Manchester City on Sunday, said his team were not mentally fresh. "The only explanation now is that we are a fatigued team, mentally more or less," he told BT Sport. "That leads to not the maximum freshness in your legs. "We had our moments but they deserved to win." He added: "The only thing we can do is use the things that happen and learn from them. The solution is always the players. It has been a tough week and tonight it was not enough. City are flying and we have to find solutions." - Defensive crisis - Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson was again drafted into central defence in the absence of any of the club's senior centre-backs, with new signing Ben Davies on the substitutes' bench. Goalkeeper Alisson Becker was absent due to illness, meaning Caoimhin Kelleher made only his second Premier League appearance, and forward Sadio Mane was also missing. Liverpool enjoyed the bulk of possession in the early stages but in-form Brighton were organised at the back and pushed forward when they could. Mohamed Salah had a golden chance to give Liverpool the lead in the opening minutes when he collected a long ball from Henderson but put his shot over the bar. Salah offered an occasional threat down the right but Liverpool looked short of ideas in the final third when faced with the massed blue shirts of Brighton. The in-form visitors had a chance to take the lead midway through the first half when the ball fell to Dan Burn after Neal Maupay's shot was blocked but he skied over from close range. Klopp's men went in at half-time having failed to muster a single shot on goal. The second half shaped up like the first, with Liverpool probing but looking short of inspiration. Instead it was Brighton who took the lead with the game's first shot on target. Burn, on the left side of the Liverpool area, headed a cross-field ball back across goal and Alzate combined with Leandro Trossard to steer the ball into the net. Klopp threw on Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Divock Origi for Georginio Wijnaldum and Xherdan Shaqiri as he sought a way back into the match. Salah flashed a left-footed shot over after Trent Alexander-Arnold fizzed a ball across the area and Adam Webster produced a superb, muscular challenge to stop the Egypt forward in his tracks. But Brighton were still threatening at the other end. Kelleher saved smartly from Pascal Gross and Trossard also forced a save. The result lifts Brighton to 15th in the table, 10 points clear of the relegation zone. "It's not an easy place to get points," said Potter. "They're a top team. We're just trying our best in this league. "Every game we face a huge task. It's one for the supporters and everyone involved in the club. It's not often a club like us come here and win."

Brighton deal huge blow to Liverpool's Premier League title hopes

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