Klopp Plays Down Title Talk - Again
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp said it would be “crazy” for the club’s fans not to be enjoying their nine-point lead in the Premier League - but played down his side’s title chances.
The Reds beat Arsenal 5-1 at Anfield yesterday to move further clear of the chasing pack, including Tottenham and Manchester City.
“I’m not the smartest person in the world but I’m really not an idiot - not always at least,” Klopp said.
“It’s not important how many points you are ahead in December - even if it’s the end of December.”
Liverpool were helped by second-placed Tottenham’s home defeat by Wolves, before a hat-trick from Roberto Firmino and goals from Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah gave them victory over Spurs’ north London rivals.
Champions Manchester City, who Liverpool meet in their next game on 3 January, could cut the gap to seven points by beating Southampton on Sunday, but Liverpool are guaranteed to finish 2018 top of the table.
The Reds are chasing a 19th English topflight title but their first since 1990.
“We came into season and if we could qualify for the Champions League it would be brilliant,” Klopp said. “Do I feel that is already done? No.”
But the German acknowledged that “if the fans are not in a good moment it would be crazy”.
“Maybe New Year’s Eve will be a bit louder - maybe not too loud, my dog doesn’t like it. Enjoy it but be ready again 3 January.
“If we drop three points, you [the media] will be the first to say that we’re nervous. We can’t play that game and we won’t do it.