James Milner says new manager Jurgen Klopp has got Liverpool fired up – and warned they can get better.
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A devastating and dominant display saw the Reds batter Manchester City 4-1 at the Etihad on Saturday to highlight the influence and impact of the German since he replaced Brendan Rodgers.
Milner said his side, now six points behind third-placed City, were “outstanding” as they pressed and pressured his former club into mistakes and blended brilliantly in attack.
“Every manager is different in terms of how they operate but he wants a reaction when we lose that ball and wants to get after it quickly,” said Liverpool’s stand-in captain.
Jürgen Klopp’s post-match tactical explanation yesterday was very interesting to watch. https://t.co/8AfXsBlH6O
— Cristian Nyari (@Cnyari) November 22, 2015
“We press in different ways depending on who we’re playing against and how we play.
“He wants us to be calm as well. It’s one thing going after the ball at 100 miles an hour, but when you win it you have to be calm and play and be that bit more patient which we can do at times a bit better.
“He’ll tell you if you’re not doing the right things and that helps. He’s in the game and you know he’s there with you. He wants you to do well.
“He knows you’re going to make mistakes and you’ll get a rocket but he’ll come up to you after and say, ‘well done’. Every manager is different. He’s different to the old manager, but the longer we’re together the better we’ll get.”
The attacking link-up play between Brazilians Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino, who got his first goal for the club since his summer move from Hoffenheim, was a particular highlight.
Milner is hoping a hamstring strain for Coutinho will not be too serious, but with Christian Benteke and Daniel Sturridge on the bench, Klopp has impressive frontline options.
“I think it’s a nice problem for the manager to have,” added Milner. “I think any manager would take that problem. If players are doing well and he’s got men on the bench who he feels he’s got to get in the team that’s what you need and what every top team has – competition.”
