Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Sport
Ian Doyle

Jurgen Klopp reaction speaks volumes as Liverpool defender Joel Matip switches off

Liverpool secured top spot in their Champions League group with a game to spare following an entertaining win over Ajax on Tuesday.

An opportunist Curtis Jones strike was enough to earn the Reds a slender 1-0 triumph over the Dutch side.

The result means Jurgen Klopp’s side have progressed to the knockout stages for the fourth successive year under his tutelage.

But there was plenty that went unnoticed or under the radar during the 90 minutes at Anfield.

Henderson shouts the way

The limited number of fans returning to Anfield on Sunday will be privy to the treat that is listening to Jordan Henderson's vocal encouragement.

Not even the television cameras can truly appreciate how the Liverpool skipper cajoles his team-mates through a game.

And it was particularly prominent during the build-up to the winning goal, as Henderson, who helped initiate the move, effectively guided Neco Williams through his movements before ordering him to cross for Curtis Jones to score.

Henderson a future Liverpool manager? Nobody would be surprised. Well, either that or a film director.

Klopp the hugger

Jurgen Klopp knew exactly what to do at the final whistle.

First he made a beeline for goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher after the youngster's impressive Champions League debut.

And then it was the turn of Neco Williams, the right-back who had responded to recent criticism with a fine display.

Both received trademark Klopp bearhugs. If that isn't a sign of having played well, then nothing is.

Bobby dazzler

He may not be having his most consistent season, but few doubt Roberto Firmino's ability on the ball.

And the Brazilian was at his outrageous best during a lively cameo in which only the width of the post denied him a goal.

Firmino isn't lacking confidence, that's for sure. And rather than just effect one clearance late on, he instead opted to embark on a run out of defence that saw him take on half the Ajax side before almost sending Sadio Mane clear.

So audacious. So Firmino. Never change, Bobby.

Matip switches off

Anyone with good sense acknowledges the Champions League anthem, while not quite a banger, is nevertheless a pretty nifty tune.

Certainly, it's significantly better than either the Europa League effort or the frankly awful new Premier League ditty.

But not everybody seems rapt at hearing it. At least that seems the case for Joel Matip, who appeared beyond bored when the teams lined up before kick-off.

Thankfully, the defender was significantly more alert during the subsequent 90 minutes.

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
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.