Klopp defends decision
(Pilkington 8) Sessegnon), 43, Willian 52)
“All the boys deserved their place. We didn’t think a second about the age. They are important players in our squad and that is how we use them.”
Klopp acknowledged the tie had not captivated the imagination and sardonically lamented the prospect of a 600-mile (965kilometre) round trip down to Plymouth for the replay.
“It was boring, it was like this,” said Klopp, whose side travel to Southampton tomorrow for the first leg of their League Cup semifinal.
“I really am happy that the Liverpool crowd didn’t leave after 60 minutes because it wasn’t the most exciting game.
“They did everything they had to do to deserve a rematch and now we have it. Yippee!”
Plymouth manager Derek Adams felt the achievement of his side in keeping a clean sheet against Liverpool was the highlight of the day given the respective budgets and standings of the two clubs.
“It’s one of the best defensive performances that Anfield has ever seen,” Adams said.
“We defended deep, in numbers, we allowed Liverpool to have the ball. That was our game-plan. You have to avoid good players having space and time.
“This was about a team performance. We had 13 players who all deserve credit and they all worked extremely hard to get this result.”
Adams also warned Liverpool they will not enjoy the same comfort as at Anfield in the replay at Argyle’s modest Home Park ground.
“The dressing rooms are not as luxurious as they are here,” he said.
“We are in a Portakabin. Welcome to the real world.” – AFP