Although Jurgen Klopp has helped Liverpool win some significant matches since taking over in October, the Reds have yet to emerge as the dominant force that Klopp’s Borussia Dortmund teams became in his same system. While the players’ production could be blamed, Klopp appears more inclined to blame the inclement English weather.
In an interview with a German newspaper [per Independent] Klopp pointed out that one difference he found between German football and English football is the weather, which features stronger winds, and blamed it for the slow adaptation to his system.
“The English game is not faster than the German game. Perhaps there are a few more sprints. But there is a different style of football here, partially due to the weather,” Klopp said.
“The wind can be quite extreme in England. We are not familiar with that in Germany and you have to keep things simple. Stoke City’s first goal against Manchester United was a perfect example of the extreme winds. Players who are not from the UK have to get used to the winds.
“I have to adapt my style of football as a result as well. Often, you are forced to keep things simple. And there are a lot more duels for the second ball here, and more duels in general. That makes the game even more intense.”
Klopp has led Liverpool to eight wins, five draws and three losses in 16 matches as manager since taking over for Brendan Rodgers in October. The Reds will play against Stoke City in the League Cup semi-finals and will play Augsburg in the Europe League Round of 32.
This past weekend Liverpool became the first team to hold Leicester City scoreless in a match en route to a 1-0 victory that moved the team to eighth place on the table.
SEE MORE:
Spurs & England winger to sign with Premier League punching bag
(Video) Mike Tyson falling off a hoverboard – better knockdown than Buster Douglas?
Liverpool close in on £23.5m move to beat Spurs to top target Saido Berahino