Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho has given his take on the debate surrounding Jurgen Klopp missing Liverpool’s FA Cup clash with Shrewsbury Town.
The Reds were held to a 2-2 draw in the first game at New Meadow nine days ago, but following that match, Klopp revealed neither he nor any of his first-team stars would be taking part in the replay - and would instead be respecting the winter break by getting some rest.
Liverpool’s u23 boss Neil Critchley will take charge of the fixture, with a host of youngsters set to feature for the current Premier League leaders.
In what some may regard as typical Mourinho fashion, he said quite a lot about Klopp and the decision - but the meaning behind his comments is perhaps not entirely clear.
*Liverpool vs Shrewsbury LIVE - match updates, TV details and more
"Jurgen Klopp is Jurgen Klopp," Mourinho said when asked about Klopp's call.
"He does what he wants. He does what his board want him to do or allows him to do.
"He does what the rules allow him to do or does not allow him to do. He does what he wants."
When asked if he would consider doing the same, Mourinho added: "So if you ask me I know where the direction goes.
"If you ask me if I prefer to play tomorrow or already have the boys on holidays I prefer to play tomorrow. To have them on holidays would mean that we are knocked out in the first game in Southampton and it is better to draw.
"It is another extra effort for the boys and we don't have many of them in this moment.
"But I prefer, the fans also prefer. They have been in the stadium against Middlesbrough in the last round and I think they are going to be there tomorrow again.
"Let's go. We are in the competition, so until we aren't we will fight."
