On Monday night, we face our fiercest rivals, Manchester United, at our newly revamped Anfield – our collective attitude as supporters going into this derby symbolises the change in mentality that Klopp has instilled: we are going in as believers, not expressing reckless over-confidence which veers to the edge of realism, just an unwavering belief that Klopp is the right person for the position and that, regardless of Monday’s result, Liverpool FC are on the march again.
Our boss displays an enthusiasm which if infectious, it is personified in his players, in the way they run, close-down space, counter-press and turn perceived lost-causes into opportunities. Take our recent home win over Hull City FC: the away team were not given time to breathe, with Liverpool asphyxiating them in and around their own box, turning Hull’s possession into engineered opportunities at goal. The reward for their endeavours? Five goals.
For all Klopp’s impressive work, some credit is also due – in my opinion – to Brendan Rodgers; his time as manager deserves to be remembered fondly. Thinking back to 2013/14, there are apparent similarities with the current campaign. The Northern Irishman had Liverpool playing brave, attacking, pressing football – and we very nearly won the league. There were setbacks to follow, but it appears that Klopp has found the dormant qualities possessed by that Liverpool team, added some quality in key areas of the field and rekindled that mentality and enthusiasm.
It has not all been plain sailing of course, with set-backs in two cup finals. The disappointment of those defeats in the league cup and Europa league still hurt, and questions have been raised about our bottle and composure when faced with the final hurdle of a competition. Always the optimist, however, I prefer to recognise the distance travelled rather than dwell on the short-comings. Additionally, how can we forget the amazing nights against United and Dortmund on route to Basel. The Dortmund game at Anfield, in particular, sums up the Klopp-effect. The players never stopped believing, and married with the energy of the fans that night, the seemingly impossible was realised.
Looking ahead to Monday night and beyond, it is the passion which was displayed on that night against Dortmund that needs to be continually exhibited. This Premier League campaign will be as closely fought as any in the past, with Manchester City, Spurs and others looking impressive. But we are very much up there, and with Klopp in charge, who knows, perhaps the sleeping giant of English football is beginning to wake.
Check out Forzared's blog here
Latest Forum Discussion