Hughton accepts Klopp apology for handshake snub

BRIGHTON manager Chris Hughton has accepted an apology from Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp after initially not shaking hands following the Reds’ 5-1 Premier League victory at the Amex Stadium.

It was the first time the Seagulls had been on the end of a heavy defeat following what has generally been a determined return to top-flight action after an absence of some 34 years.

With emotions running high on both sides, Klopp appeared to briefly snub the Brighton manager as he was approached for a handshake following the final whistle, which led to a heated response from Hughton.

Klopp, though, has subsequently moved to clear up the “misunderstanding”, which he said occurred because “(Liverpool forward) Mo Salah passed my way and I gave him a hug”.

Hughton was asked for his take on the issue when speaking at a Press conference ahead of tomorrow’s Premier League match at Huddersfield, and the Brighton boss also looked to draw a line under the matter.

“Credit to Jurgen, he came looking for me afterwards, I was doing the Press at the time. I’ve heard his comments and I very much believe his comments,” Hughton said.

“Sometimes it’s an emotional game and even from myself when you’ve been at the bad end of a 5-1 defeat you’re obviously not too happy and you can be angry yourself, and possibly my reaction is a little bit different if our result is a little bit better.”

Hughton added: “I heard what Jurgen had to say in his Press conference (ahead of the Champions League match against Spartak Moscow).

“He didn’t have to say that, so I very much appreciate his words. He was very honest about what he said and that shows respect both ways.”