Watch FIFA World Cup 2026™

LIVE, FREE and EXCLUSIVE

Klopp angered by Liverpool's festive fixture schedule

Liverpool's clash with Manchester City has been moved to Dec. 31, less than 48 hours before they face Sunderland.

Klopp angered by Liverpool's festive fixture schedule
(Reuters)

Klopp, who was named Premier League manager of the month for September, said the change in timings meant his joy at the award was short-lived.

"Now I have seen the fixtures I am not too happy," Klopp told reporters on Friday before the visit of Manchester United on Monday.

"We have less than 48 hours between our game against Man City on Dec. 31 and in Sunderland on Jan. 2.

"Forty-eight hours is an interesting idea but less than 48 hours I cannot believe. I learn more and more about this league and maybe I have to ask someone if we can ask if there will be another time for us at Sunderland," the German added,

News that makes sense

Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

"Everyone is asking, 'Why is England not too successful in big tournaments?'. Ask what other big countries are doing at this time of year they have their legs on the sofa and are watching English football."

Klopp also took aim at former Wales assistant manager Raymond Verheijen, who has often criticised the German's training regime on Twitter.

"Forty-eight hours between two games - how does this work? And then you will sit there and say 'You didn't perform too well, how did this happen?' or 'Injuries. Oh?'" the German added.

"And then this Dutch guy (Verheijen) says 'The training is not too good'. How do you prepare a team for this? Do you say 'Only 50 percent against City because we have Sunderland on Monday'. It doesn't sound like it is right."

Liverpool are fourth in the table, two places above United, and Klopp said he was hopeful that midfielders Adam Lallana and Georginio Wijnaldum would be fit for the game after recent injuries.

(Reporting by Simon Jennings in Bengaluru, editing by Ed Osmond)


2 min read

Published

Source: Reuters



Share this with family and friends


Get SBS News straight to your inbox

Sign up now for daily news from Australia and around the world. You can also subscribe to Insight's weekly newsletter for in-depth features and first-person stories.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Follow SBS News

Download our apps

Listen to our podcasts

Get the latest with our News podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS

SBS World News

Take a global view with Australia's most comprehensive world news service

Stream now

Watch the latest news videos from Australia and across the world