Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Sam Meade

Jurgen Klopp admits coronavirus concerns before international break after positive tests

Jurgen Klopp concedes he is concerned about the measures being put in place around the globe to combat coronavirus ahead of the international break.

The Liverpool boss has seen two of his leading lights - Sadio Mane and new boy Thiago - test positive for Covid-19 this week.

Klopp has long been outspoken regarding the global pandemic with his side enjoying a perfect start to the Premier League season ahead of their clash with Aston Villa on Sunday.

But he will watch his stars jet off to various locations to represent their countries in the first international break of the season knowing he has no control over how safety will be handled.

“I don't want to sound too disrespectful as we don't know too much about what other countries are doing," said Klopp.

Jurgen Klopp has concerns over player safety ahead of the international break (Getty Images)

“If your son or daughter asked if you wanted to travel (abroad) there or there, you might say you're not sure if that's the right moment.

“It's a little bit like that with football players.

“I'm not saying this is the safest place in the world, but it's the place we know at least.

"Yes, I am slightly concerned. It's difficult to get in contact with all FAs all over the world.

“I understand 100 per cent the demands on FAs and UEFA and FIFA. I know how difficult the situation is for everybody. But it's not exactly perfect.”

Sadio Mane has tested positive for coronavirus (Pool via REUTERS)

Liverpool's first game back will be a Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.

The lunchtime kick-off on October 17 means both clubs are against the clock as they look to get players tested.

And Klopp has lamented the attitude of domestic broadcasters.

He added: “They still think it's a good idea to let us play on Saturday pretty early.

“Supporters at other clubs say I moan constantly, but I don't moan. I know it's difficult.

“But here in this country, the Premier League and TV broadcasters don't care - so as a club you are alone in these moments.

When should fans be allowed to return to live games? Have your say here.

“As a club you have to make sure you bring the players home in the quickest and most safe way because nobody helps you. It's not like an FA is saying they'll pay for a private plane.

“Then they (the players) arrive on Friday, we see if we can make a (coronavirus) test, and then we don't get the result until the Saturday.

"It's really tricky. We try everything to make it right and safe as possible, but from time to time a little more help would not be bad.”

* Sign up to the Mirror Football email here for the latest news and transfer gossip.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.