Klopp defends liverpool form

LIVERPOOL: Jurgen Klopp insists Liverpool have not given more to their efforts in Europe than they have in the Premier League as he prepares to send out another below-strength side against Watford on Sunday.

Klopp has guided Liverpool to the final of the Europa League against holders Sevilla after they saw off Villarreal 3-0 in Thursday’s semi-final second leg at Anfield to go through 3-1 on aggregate.

Inevitably, that leaves Klopp’s focus on the final in Basel on May 18, when Liverpool will be looking to win their first European trophy since 2005 and also secure a place in the Champions League. That appears to be Liverpool’s only route into European competition for next season as they are now eighth in the Premier League, although Klopp does not believe his players have saved their best for Europe.

“I don’t think there is a big difference, to be honest. I think it is a little bit about timing, a little bit about luck at specific moments,” Klopp said.

“We had similar games in the Premier League, but not in a row. 2016 is quite a successful season for Liverpool and the team.

“The Europa League has given us the opportunity to maybe qualify for the Champions League.

“But on the other side, it has cost the opportunity of qualifying for the Champions League in the Premier League because of the number of games, (as well as) going to the final of the League Cup and the injuries and circumstances we’ve had. “I’m sure there was no difference in attitude with the Premier League, the Europa League or any other tournament.”