Jurgen Klopp admits he was considering substituting Gini Wijnaldum shortly before the “lucky” goal that extended Liverpool's 100% start to the Premier League season.
The Reds earned a seventh successive win from the start of the top-flight campaign with a hard-earned 1-0 win at promoted Sheffield United on Saturday afternoon.
Wijnaldum struck the only goal with 20 minutes remaining when his shot from the edge of the area squirmed through the hands of home goalkeeper Dean Henderson.
Liverpool made a substitution six minutes earlier when skipper Jordan Henderson was replaced by Divock Origi.
And Klopp admitted there was every chance it was Wijnaldum was the one being substituted.
“It was an offensive change,” said the Reds boss. “We had the opportunity to take off either Hendo or Gini.
“Both worked hard, for both it was not an easy game.
“Obviously we made the right decision as Gini stayed on the pitch and scored!”
See how the players rated in the win over Sheffield United HERE
Origi's introduction prompted a switch from 4-3-3 to 4-2-3-1 for Liverpool, with Roberto Firmino playing behind Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane switching to the right and Origi brought on to play on the left.
“We wanted to change our approach actually,” said Klopp. “Bobby finally in between the lines and still an option in behind. We needed to defend the wings properly.
“Div had a proper impact when he came on. It was really helpful that we could pass the ball there, he had one-on-one situation and he crossed the ball for the goal as well.”
Klopp added: “We had luck around the goal, for sure. That's clear. That was not our biggest chance in the game. Unlucky for Sheffield United, for sure.
“I really think we deserved it but it was lucky because of how the goal went in. We got the three points and it leaves me pretty happy at the moment.”
