Klopp names key issue that let Man City back in during second half

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp highlighted the importance of defending Raheem Sterling as a key factor – but also a key issue – in his side’s victory over Manchester City on Sunday.

First-half goals from Fabinho and Mo Salah were followed up in the second half by Sadio Mane’s header before Bernardo Silva cut the deficit late on.

Sterling was largely quiet for parts of the game but grew into it and was one of the key reasons for the visitors getting back into it.

Speaking to BBC Sport after the game, Klopp recognised that but was happy his side moved eight points clear at the Premier League’s summit.

“They were good. Oh they were good and we had to defend with all we had but we scored incredible goals,” the manager said.

“It was so tough to play, the intensity of the game was so clear. It was all worth it, really great. They pass the ball from outside, Sterling. How good did we defend him until then? Because you saw what happens when we don’t defend him anymore.

“The boys were completely focused and concentrated. It was so good. It is the only way we can beat City, maybe other teams can do it a different way but this is the only way we can beat them.”

City could have had a penalty after six minutes of the first half when the ball struck Trent Alexander-Arnold’s arm, but the claim was waved away by referee Michael Oliver and VAR.

Speaking about the incident, Klopp added: “The problem was the VAR. I saw the discussions before the first goal and I was just waiting. It is not the same anymore but it is no problem. I can celebrate tonight.

“All the games against City were pretty much like this apart from last season’s home game. That was more controlled. This was not the most beautiful and most controlled but it was very lively, I like that.”

Liverpool return from the international break with a game against Crystal Palace on November 23.