Everton boss Ronald Koeman had some choice words to say about the Reds’ bench following their celebrations in the 3-1 win at the weekend.
Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp celebrates after the game with Georginio Wijnaldum as Roberto Firmino celebrates with Adam Lallana
Ever since Jurgen Klopp arrived at Liverpool, it seems that himself and his coaching staff head every ball from the touchline, and it was no different in the Reds’ 3-1 win over Merseyside rivals Everton at the weekend.
However, it would appear not everyone is a fan, and Everton boss Ronald Koeman was particularly scathing about the Liverpool bench – borderline accusing them of influencing refereeing decisions.
“I don’t like coaches from the bench the whole time shouting to referees and linesmen, making a big show about tackles, Koeman said speaking to BBC Sport. “They were crazy. According to their bench, the referee should have shown eight red cards.”
This may have come across as sour grapes considering it was a Merseyside derby that Everton desperately needed to win, and by saying that it deflected attention away from the result, but on the whole, Liverpool’s animated bench hasn’t been a bad thing by any stretch.
At a time where, despite social media allowing fans to connect with players, the game seems more distant to the public than perhaps ever before given the sums of money involved, to see coaches essentially acting as passionate fans would do is incredibly refreshing to see.
Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp celebrates after the game
It also reinforces the fact that it’s not just about money, which is what top flight professionals are accused of wanting all the time, but that these people want to win just as much as fans do – especially in big games.
Granted, at times it can feel like the animation is stepping over the line, but by and large, it’s a good thing to have for the Premier League, and it’s something that should be embraced.
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