Diogo Jota has stated that he is ‘never happy’ at being substituted after Jurgen Klopp’s bold call during Liverpool’s 2-0 win at Arsenal on Wednesday night, as he told Premier League Productions (16/03/22 at 10:20 pm).
Moments after the Liverpool forward put the ball into the back of the net, Klopp decided to substitute his goalscorer.
Prior to Jota opening the scoring at the Emirates, it did seem as though Klopp was looking to bring the Portugal international off the pitch.
Even though he put the ball into the back of the net seconds later, Klopp still stuck with his call.
After the game, Jota was asked by Alan Shearer how he honestly felt about that decision, as the £41 million Liverpool man (BBC Sport) issued the following response.
“You can be honest with us, what did you think when you saw your number come up from the touchline that your last touch was a goal?” asked Shearer.
Jota responded: “Well, it could be worse. If I didn’t score, then it was worse. I am never happy when I have to come off, but it was a good way to finish the game at least.”
Many other managers would have kept Jota on the field of play after he scored, but Klopp was correct to stick to his guns.
It proved to be a masterstroke of a move from the German because Jota’s replacement, Roberto Firmino, doubled his side’s lead five minutes later.
In truth, a number of Liverpool’s attackers are going to feel disappointed during these coming months because Klopp has a stupidly good amount of players to pick from.
Amongst his call to bring Jota off last night, a certain Mohamed Salah was also introduced into the action.
The Reds could afford to keep him on the bench after he picked up an injury against Brighton, which just further proves the attacking power they have at their disposal and in this Premier League title race.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
