Published 11:32 IST, June 23rd 2020
Jurgen Klopp hilariously mocks Gary Neville, claims Man United legend opines on everything
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has claimed that he learned nothing new during the lockdown except the fact that Gary Neville has his say on almost everything.
Jurgen Klopp oversaw Liverpool's return in the Premier League in the Merseyside derby after a stringent lockdown, albeit with a draw. While the lockdown gave Liverpool a chance to recharge their batteries and deal with some niggling injuries in the squad, it was a dull return to top-flight football for Liverpool as Carlo Ancelotti's pragmatic Everton gave them a scare late on. Speaking in an interview last weekend, Jurgen Klopp was asked if he picked up any new tricks of the trade while in lockdown. Klopp was quick to oblige with a response, while also taking a subtle dig at Man United great and Sky Sports pundit, Gary Neville.
Jurgen Klopp mocks 'opinionated' Gary Neville
While speaking on Football Focus, Jurgen Klopp stated that he learned nothing new during the lockdown except the fact that Gary Neville has his say on almost everything. However, he did clarify, saying that it was incredible on part of the Man United great to speak on a wide range of issues.
Gary Neville has been vocal on several issues amid the lockdown, particularly in his frequent criticism of the government of the UK for its indolent response on resuming the Premier League. He did respond to Jurgen Klopp's claims on Twitter, stating that he was delighted to know that the Liverpool boss has been listening to his opinions.
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Jurgen Klopp speaks on missing Liverpool training
Jurgen Klopp asserted that he realised the inter-connectivity among society amid the coronavirus lockdown, while also emphasising that he missed the Liverpool squad dearly. He added that the coronavirus lockdown wasn't just difficult for him or for his family, but for every person in the world. He, however, felt pride in the way society dealt with the pandemic.
Jurgen Klopp emphasised his relationship with the Liverpool squad, saying that they had a forged a close bond with each other in the past four and a half years. The entire team used to stay connected virtually during the lockdown, although, the feeling of training together at Melwood cannot be compared, Klopp added.
Jurgen Klopp's Reds set to play hosts to former boss Roy Hodgson's Crystal Palace
Sky Sports confirmed this week that nearly 5.5 million viewers tuned in to watch Liverpool pay a visit to Goodison Park in their first game in 106 days. However, it turned out to be a dull affair for the high-flying Reds. Liverpool failed to break down an Arrigo Sacchi-esque Everton side, while goalkeeper Alisson and centre-back Joe Gomez's late heroics secured a point for the league leaders. Liverpool will now play hosts to Crystal Palace on June 24, Wednesday night (Thursday morning 12:45 am IST) in a bid to wrap up the Premier League title with record games to spare.
Image courtesy: Gary Neville Instagram, AP
Updated 11:32 IST, June 23rd 2020