Liverpool
Premier League • England
Liverpool assistant Lijnders diverts transfer question to Klopp after outlining three factors that must align for January signings
Liverpool assistant manager Pep Lijnders has insisted that the club are prepared for the January transfer window, but believes Jurgen Klopp is better placed to answer any questions about it.
Liverpool are back in action for the first time since the World Cup on Thursday. They will be visiting Manchester City for a challenging Carabao Cup tie in the round of 16.
Of course, the two clubs have gone toe to toe for the Premier League title in recent years. Games between them have usually been entertaining as a result, although there is some intrigue as to how this one will go so soon after the World Cup.
Liverpool went all the way to win the Carabao Cup last season. Incidentally, Man City claimed the trophy in the previous four editions of the tournament.
It will be interesting to see how the game goes. But once it is out of the way, the attention will be turning not only to their next Premier League matches, but also the upcoming January transfer window.
Liverpool have been tipped to strengthen their midfield if an opportunity arises. It could also be an important month for players who want to leave the club.
On the eve of the Manchester City clash, Klopp’s assistant Lijnders took on press conference duties.
Asked about the upcoming transfer window, Lijnders replied: “This is the press room. It’s not the board room. We discuss these things in the board room.
“Next time when Jurgen sits here, just ask him! He will be open.”
Later, Lijnders explained that Liverpool need to be sure that three things are right before making a move for any targets.
He added: “About the transfer window, we’re always ready, we always prepare. Right player, right moment, right feeling. We are always prepared.”
Lijnders previews Man City v Liverpool
Obviously, their minds will be on the Man City match first and foremost. According to Lijnders, Liverpool will need to be switched on and efficient in and out of possession.
He said: “We know against them we need to be 100% concentrated on the things we have to do. We need to be really difficult to play against.
“We need to be really good and efficient in the moments we have the ball.
“We will try and they will try. It’s a strange situation coming back from the World Cup and having this fixture straight [away], for them and for us.
“But we will try and the team’s already proved in the past, whoever players are on the pitch, that they will make it a top show.”
Kick-off is scheduled for 8pm GMT on Thursday.