Liverpool throw-in coach Thomas Gronnemark has reflected on the phone call from Jurgen Klopp that changed the course of his career.
Now entering his fourth season working with the Reds, having recently agreed a new one-year deal, the Dane has helped develop new techniques to transform the club's fortunes on the pitch.
Sparking quick counter-attacks and ensuring possession is not turned over are two of the biggest changes to come from this appointment, providing Liverpool with the best chance of success.
When the Reds first made contact with Gronnemark three years ago, this arrived in unexpected circumstances for the 45-year-old.
READ MORE: Lionel Messi admits Liverpool regret as Barcelona great confirms exit
The throw-in specialist missed the call from Klopp and was then in for a shock when he listened to the unread message on his voicemail.
“There was a voicemail message so I went to the car to listen to it,” Gronnemark told Liverpoolfc.com.
“It was Jürgen Klopp - and it was a good thing that I was sat down when I heard him! Even though it had been a dream to coach at some of the biggest clubs, you never know if it will happen, that’s the way it is.
“I tried to call him back and he didn’t take it this time, which was probably good because my heart was pounding! I went back into the shop and told my wife and of course she was as surprised as me.
"My son Daniel, who is 19 and really into his sports, was so excited and we decided to go home so I could take the most important call of my life. Suddenly on our way home the phone rang. My wife picked up and said, ‘It’s Jürgen!’
“I stopped the car and we spoke and he said: ‘I read an article about you in a German newspaper, we had a really good season [in 2017-18] but we were really bad at throw-ins, we lost it almost every time."
Gronnemark added he was later invited by the Liverpool boss to visit Melwood one week after their call, which marked the start of an effective relationship.
According to statistics from Tifo Football, Liverpool had possession of 45.4 per cent on throw-ins under pressure and ranked 18th out of the 20 Premier League teams in that area the season prior to Gronnemark's appointment.
By the end of his first season at the club (2018/19), Liverpool now ranked top in this department in the Premier League with 68.4 per cent.
