Liverpool

Liverpool

Premier League • England

Klopp makes ‘completely strange’ Divock Origi admission in fitting tribute to Liverpool ‘legend’

Liverpool striker Divock Origi holding the FA Cup trophy

Jurgen Klopp has once again labelled Divock Origi a Liverpool “legend” ahead of his departure from Anfield at the end of the season.

Origi is one of the few players still at Liverpool who were there when Klopp became manager in October 2015. While he was a key part of the German’s early tenure, his overall impact has waned in recent seasons.

Nevertheless, he has become a cult hero for standout moments in all different competitions. Origi’s best moment in a Liverpool shirt was arguably his brace in the 2019 Champions League final against Barcelona and subsequent goal in Madrid.

However, the Belgian has also proved a menace for Everton. He has helped Liverpool retain most of the Merseyside derby bragging rights with key goals.

Still, Origi’s contract expires this summer and he has reportedly reached an agreement to join AC Milan. Ahead of Liverpool’s final Premier League game of the season against Wolves at Anfield, Klopp therefore expects the striker to get a fitting send-off.

The manager also admitted that his legend-like status is “completely strange” given his fringe role in the past few seasons.

“I expect Div to get a special farewell, he is and will be for me forever, a Liverpool legend,” Klopp told a press conference.

“One of the most important players I ever had. That sounds completely strange with the amount of games he had, but it is and was a pure joy to work with him.

“It’s not over yet, just because it’s the last Premier League game and yes, he deserves all good thoughts we can generate for his future.”

Klopp lauds Origi, Liverpool impact

Jurgen Klopp Divock Origi March 2022

“Wherever he will go, he will be successful, 100 per cent,” Klopp added of the 27-year-old.

“He’s an outstanding player, an outstanding boy and everybody in the team loves him. He’s a relaxed guy, a loveable guy.

“That will be a hard moment when he actually leaves. Since I’m here, Div is here, I remember so many things when I think about Div.

“The important goals, injuries, bad injuries, ups and downs, he’s a Liverpool legend no doubt.”

Liverpool in title race because of star man

While Origi has enjoyed standout moments in the Champions League, Carabao Cup and against Everton, Liverpool would not be in the title race without him.

Indeed, it was his goal in the 94th minute away at Wolves that secured the Reds a 1-0 win at Molineux.

Divock Origi in advanced talks with AC Milan

Divock Origi in advanced talks with AC Milan

Divock Origi looks set for Italy switch as AC Milan talks advance

Those three points in December have helped Liverpool – a little bit at least – to remain in the title hunt until the final day.

And with another Champions League final also to come for the Reds, Origi could yet produce one more massive moment.

However, he has done more than enough to cement his place in Liverpool folklore.