No good-Bay-s
Klopp slams Gary Neville for suggesting a Champions League defeat at Bayern would be a blessing
JURGEN KLOPP has slammed Gary Neville for claiming a Champions League loss to Bayern Munich would help Liverpool’s title hopes.
The former Borussia Dortmund boss returns to Germany hoping his team can pull off a famous win with the last-16 tie goalless after the first leg.
But Klopp, asked about a comment made by former Manchester United defender Neville, said: “I really don’t think any other coach in the world has to answer this question when he plays in the Champions League.
"I really think it is unique. It only happens to the Liverpool manager and the pundits come from Manchester United.”
Previously, Neville said: “I'm going to say it: go out against Bayern Munich. That sounds like madness.
"Of course, you'd never play to lose a game but it will be in Liverpool's favour if they have a clean run as they can get everyone fresh."
Continuing his rant, Klopp said: “People asked us in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup if it was better [to lose] and we didn't see this.
"We wanted to go through and we did not. We want to be focus on this game.
“Even if it did harm us we could not change it. These guys try to prove someday that it is possible to use the ideas in real life and not only in the studio.
"I am not angry but it is mad you continually get confronted with it. On the other hand it could build momentum if we win, play good football.
"If, on Thursday, it is over, we prepare for Fulham on Sunday.”
Klopp, who welcomes Virgl van Dijk back from his one-game Euro suspension, expects an open game.
He said: “They are a world class team and world class players. There will be moments we can dominate and moments – probably more – Bayern dominate.
“Three weeks ago, Bayern came to Liverpool and we had to explain we are not the massive favourites.
"Bayern adapted to the form we had so they showed a lot of respect. They played football but not as much as they would do usual. Now, this will be an open game.”
Former Dortmund boss Klopp also laughed at a question when he was asked about being so happy.
He said: “My son sent me a video this morning and it showed coaches freaking out. Trapattoni was there and I was in the video three times.
"I am not always funny. But I can be funny at times.”
Liverpool, meanwhile, will insist on keeper Loris Karius staying on loan at Besiktas - after the goalkeeper kicked off a lawsuit against the Turkish club.
