Klopp: We are learning to stay more in control
JURGEN Klopp believes table-topping Liverpool’s impressive club recordequalling unbeaten Premier League run boils down to improved control.
The Reds made it 17 league matches without defeat by thumping Bournemouth 4-0 at Dean Court on Saturday, with Mohamed Salah bagging a stunning hat-trick.
Liverpool sit top of the Premier League and are now the league’s only unbeaten team after champions Manchester City lost 2-0 at Chelsea on Saturday night.
Klopp’s men led 2-0 and 3-2 before capitulating to a 4-3 Premier League defeat at Bournemouth in December 2016, but the German coach believes his players are these days far more robust than that.
Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe branded Liverpool “stronger mentally, physically and tactically” now than two years ago, leaving Klopp hopeful that his players can maintain their ruthless streak.
“I could probably draw for you the goals we conceded that day – we let Bournemouth come back into that game,” said Klopp, looking back to the dramatic 4-3 defeat.
“Unfortunately I cannot say that will never happen again, but we are really more controlled in these situations now. It was a big step for us, very important.
“Last year we were really flying and everything was brilliant, until we were not flying.
“The difference between flying and not flying was quick last year.
“It was something we wanted to work on. It’s worked out. That’s good. A few new players have come in and other players are more mature.
“This squad is still not too experienced, that’s how it is. But we still have to improve, that’s clear.”
Liverpool equalled the class of 2008’s 17-match league unbeaten run at Bournemouth, and could now eclipse that record by avoiding defeat against rivals Manchester United on December 16.
When quizzed on the difference Dutch international defender Virgil Van Dijk had made to Liverpool’s spine, Klopp insisted the collective must take the credit.
“I could write a book about Virgil’s strengths, I could write a book about Alisson’s strengths, but look what Joel Matip did at Bournemouth, how good he was,” said Klopp.
“He has absolutely no rhythm, but he trains on the highest level, and he’s not even in the squad sometimes. But then he plays and is excellent. So it’s not about one person.
“James Milner, it’s Premier League game number 500 and he plays at right back. It’s the least favourite position he would want to play, but he did the job, so that all comes together.
“The centre-half alone can do nothing. Nobody can perform wonders. So we need all these boys around.”
In hailing Liverpool’s growing resolve, Bournemouth boss Howe revealed he hopes for positive news on striker Callum Wilson’s ham- string injury. England hitman Wilson was a late withdrawal from Saturday’s clash, but Howe hopes he will be back in action with little delay.
“Liverpool look stronger mentally, physically and tactically than they were in the past,” said Howe.
“We did miss Callum, that unique mix of pace and trickery that might have caused Liverpool’s backline problems.
“I don’t think it’s going to be long-term for him though. It’s a grade one hamstring injury, so we’ll try to get him fit for Wolves.”