Klopp: ‘We’re positive now’; Boro game is ‘everything’

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp says the season’s finale against Middlesbrough on Sunday means “everything”.

The Reds know that a win at Anfield against relegated Boro will be enough to secure Champions League football.

However, with Arsenal just a point behind, if Liverpool slip up and the Gunners defeat Everton their Champions League hopes will be shattered.

And Klopp is well aware his men will be in a pressure situation with the Teessiders’ fate already confirmed.

“Middlesbrough have nil point nil pressure,” said Klopp. “They just want to enjoy a good game.

“Three teams have to go down, this year Middlesbrough’s one of them. But they’re a big club, and a big chance to use this time.

“It’s everything. It’s the end of the season, the middle of development, start of the new season. In the end it’s a football game,” added Klopp.

“Never, ever in history, somebody said before a game ‘this would be the start of a new era’. Maybe we can mark it later.

“Everything we get on Sunday, we have to take, make the best of it.

Klopp also admitted his squad seem to be in a better frame of mind this year.

“We are a really interesting project,” Klopp continued. “Everybody can see from the outside, the base is still there, the size and power.

“They have to see it, they have to feel it, then they have to make a decision.

“The players are really positive in comparison to last year. They saw our way, they saw the football, and that’s good.

“Champions League would be icing of the cake. It should not sound negative, but if it’s the only reason, it makes no sense for us.

“It’s always important for players, but in the end it’s always like this. The progress, development and positive perspective.”

Klopp also gave an update on Roberto Firmino, who was missing against West Ham.

“No decision until now but he’s good. He’s not been part of team training yet but we will make a final decision tomorrow,” said Klopp.