This archive report was first published on 8 May 2021.
May 8, 2021
Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has downplayed his side's chances of finishing in the top four of the Premier League, citing a campaign marred by injuries and poor form.
Despite winning the Premier League title last season, Liverpool currently sits seventh in the table, seven points adrift of the fourth and final Champions League spot.
"I am not sure there is still a chance (for top four) but we will try and if there is one, we will be there for sure," Klopp said ahead of Saturday's home game against Southampton.
The German manager acknowledged that his team had struggled to cope with the loss of key players, including Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, Joel Matip, and Jordan Henderson, who have all been sidelined due to injuries.
"People think it's an excuse but we lost our full defence, it felt like we broke our leg," Klopp explained. "You can limp but midfielders transformed to defenders and the spine was broke, then it's difficult to move."
However, Klopp remains optimistic and is using the experience to learn and improve for the future.
He also expressed his support for fans' right to demonstrate, but emphasized the need for peaceful protests.
"I am a believer in democracy," Klopp said. "I am happy for people to tell their opinion... I heard police were injured and this should not happen. To break down doors and stuff. It was not completely peaceful and then it's not right anymore."
