The Liverpool boss has struggled to get his defence in good form.
Burnley’s Andre Gray in action with Liverpool’s Ragnar Klavan and Jordan Henderson
Liverpool’s bubble was unceremoniously burst at Turf Moor yesterday. After defeating Arsenal 4-3 on the opening day Jurgen Klopp’s side’s attacking verve was praised, but defensive frailties exposed. Burnley played on the latter in a 2-0 win.
Liverpool’s defending was poor in the game and former player Danny Murphy was critical of the player’s ability to pass from the back on Match of the Day yesterday (20/08/2016):
“Jurgen Klopp has obviously encouraged them to play out from the back. That’s not a problem, it is a good way to play. Are they good enough to do this every time they play? Not quite, they’re not Barcelona.
Burnley manager Sean Dyche and Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp
“It’s exactly what they did at Arsenal last week and before you know it they have a mountain to climb.”
Murphy was not alone. Liverpool fans would not have been so welcoming of the criticism from Phil Neville, considering his Manchester United and Everton heritage. However, the former England international made a good point regarding the way in which Klopp has Liverpool playing:
“I think when Klopp came to the Premier League we all thought he was going to be this direct type coach who would get the ball forward and play past attacking football.
Phil Neville
“I am surprised by the way they are playing. To play this system well you need your centre-backs to control the game. Today, they were poor.”
It certainly seems that there is a departure between the attack and defence when it comes to the style of play Klopp wants to install.
The attackers are all out and high energy in their approach but the defensive build-up is slow and cumbersome – especially with central defenders Dejan Lovren and Ragnar Klavan.
Getting this balance right will be key if Liverpool are to have success under the German this season.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
