Lincoln boss Appleton calls Jurgen Klopp the best manager in the world

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Lincoln manager Michael Appleton has spoken to the Telegraph about the prospect of facing Liverpool in the EFL Cup tonight.

Appleton had high praise for Reds boss Jurgen Klopp, calling him the best manager in the world.

He also shared how he’s been preparing to face the Premier League champions.

When it is put to former Manchester United man Appleton that Liverpool are the best club team in the world on the back of their Club World Cup win in 2019, he says: “Well I wouldn’t say that.

“But what I will say is this is the best manager in the world. I’ve looked at teams he put out last year [in cup competitions]. I know they have players who need minutes, I know he’ll want to try out a couple of new signings.

“But one whatever the eleven, the way they play and the way they set up are always the same.

“It’ll be 4-3-3 and there are certain areas of pitch where the front players like to pick up the ball. We have to be aware enough to make sure we get there first.”

Appleton only played twice for United in his career – and never in the league – but it seems to still stop him admitting hands down how good the Reds are.

But he’s in no doubt over how good Klopp is as he prepares to pit his wits against the German.

Lincoln have switched to a passing style under Appleton and they will clearly try and play their passes where they can tonight.

Liverpool should have too much for tonight’s hosts, and Pep Ljinders told the pre-match press conference (Liverpool Echo) yesterday that a ‘strong team’ will be deployed.