Roy Keane claims he was 'sat at home cringing' over Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool gesture
Roy Keane has revealed the one moment during Jurgen Klopp’s time at Liverpool that left him “cringing”, although he now admits the German “knew what he was doing”.
Klopp is set to step down as Liverpool boss at the end of the season and Keane has reflected on his tenure at Anfield ahead of his final matches. Early on in his reign, Liverpool drew 2-2 with West Brom thanks to a late Divock Origi equaliser and Klopp and his squad linked arms to celebrate the result in front of their fans.
And while Keane felt the moment was cringeworthy at the time, he now admits it was a smart one. “[That game vs] West Brom, they drew and he’s got them all cheering and holding hands at the end,” Keane told Sky Sports.
“I was at home cringing going what’s this guy up to? But he knew what he was doing. He’s a smart cookie.” The Manchester United legend went on to pay tribute to what Klopp has achieved at Anfield, branding his success “amazing”.
“Huge respect for what he’s done with the club from his personality to style of football,” Keane added. “They’re back competing at the highest level. They’ve had disappointments like every other football club.
“The way they fell away the last few weeks is probably hard to stomach for a lot of fans. The Everton performance and result, the European games, the spat with [Mohamed] Salah – a little sour taste.
“If you step back and look at the bigger picture about the manager and what he’s about, it’s amazing. When you’re a big club it’s about winning but also belief. Liverpool fans and players travelled home and away, when they were at games you must look at the manager and say you’re glad he’s in charge.
Liverpool celebrate drawing against West Brom back in 2015
“Even top players can lose belief but he brought that – first home game here. His team entertained. They’re enjoyable. We all have a tactical side to a game. When you watch a game of football you want to see them go for it and he’s done that.”
Feyenoord boss Arne Slot is set to replace Klopp, with the Dutchman “confident” the deal will be confirmed in due course. He told ESPN: “The clubs are negotiating. I am awaiting the outcome. It’s no secret I want to go to Liverpool. Now I am waiting for the clubs to reach an agreement. I am confident that will happen.”
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