KLOPP JOINS THE DEMENTIA FIGHT
JURGEN KLOPP will square off against Sir Alex Ferguson — after the Liverpool manager became the latest big name to join football’s fight against dementia. Klopp will join Ferguson, Sir Kenny Dalglish and Gareth Southgate in a one-off live event being held in conjunction with Sportsmail’s campaign to raise funds for research into the link between football and the disease and to support those suffering and their families. the German will take part in the fundraiser on Friday night, less than 48 hours before his Premier
League champions face Manchester United. ‘I’m only too delighted to play my part in raising money for such an important cause,’ Klopp said.
‘I don’t take time out before such a big match for nothing but with Sir Kenny, Sir Alex and Gareth it’s bound to be a special evening.’
The event will be hosted by Sky Sports presenter Kelly Cates — Dalglish’s daughter — with the quartet of managers appearing from their own homes. Fans who buy tickets via a donation can ask questions with organisers — who say no subject will be off-limits — hoping to raise £500,000.
In an interview with Sportsmail Ferguson joked that ‘sparks would fly’ during the fundraiser. He enjoys a good relationship with Klopp and Dalglish. Last year, Klopp apologised to Ferguson for waking up the former United boss with a late-night message following rivals Liverpool’s first title success in 30 years but Ferguson told Klopp at the LMA Manager of the Year award that he was forgiven.
‘I’m looking forward to it,’ said Klopp. ‘I hope football fans everywhere will support us and enjoy a great evening.’ The event, Team Talk with Legends, is the brainchild of former sports television executive Trevor East. ‘We can only thank Jurgen for his marvellous gesture, taking time out ahead of such an important game,’ he said. ‘To have such an illustrious lineup talking about the game is something not to be missed.’
Funds raised will go to the Alzheimer’s Society’s Sport United Against Dementia and the League Managers Association’s In The Game charity. To buy a ticket visit: