Wednesday, November 23, 2016

Klopp warns squad: Celebrate now and I’ll drop you

Jurgen Klopp has warned his Liverpool squad about celebrating their lofty position in November.

The Reds are currently second in the Premier League table, trailing leaders Chelsea by a single point.

They have scored a league-high 30 goals, and have been installed as third favourites.

But the German is adamant that talk of the title will not infiltrate his Anfield squad at this early stage.

“We are four or five hours a day here (at Melwood). Sometimes longer, sometimes less. They still have a few hours to be influenced.

“If somebody is a character and wants to celebrate position one in November then he will not play in December anymore because I see it pretty quick.

“These things usually don’t happen. The players are here in this situation because their character is really good. It is a long way to get here. It is not like they are surprised about success whether it is individual or as a team.

“They had successes of being the best player at Southampton, Schalke or other teams. This is success but if you then celebrate this and don’t be professional anymore then you have a problem.

“It is not too difficult. Nothing has happened until now. It is better to be in the number one place one time than never in your life but it is not really important in this moment. They know this already. Stay cool, play football and see what happens.”