Klopp reveals who has been the biggest ‘pleasant surprise’

Jurgen Klopp: Happy with Lallana

Jurgen Klopp: Happy with Lallana

Jurgen Klopp says Adam Lallana has provided the biggest “pleasant surprise” during his time at Liverpool.

Lallana, 27, has made 38 appearances for Liverpool this season, scoring five goals and the former Southampton forward started both of England’s recent friendlies.

And the England man has been voted PFA Fans’ Premier League Player of the Month for March will be hoping to start Saturday’s Anfield tussle with title contenders Tottenham.

Spurs were the first side Klopp faced as Liverpool manager after his appointment as Brendan Rodgers’ replacement in October, and Saturday’s game already represents the 39th of the German’s tenure.

When asked on his thoughts of Lallana’s award, Klopp asked: “What did he win?” After being told it was the Player of the Month award, Klopp replied: “That’s nice. Hopefully he can win again in April.

“Has he been the most pleasant surprise? One for sure. I always knew how strong he is. I knew more about him when he played for Southampton, he wrote a very nice story there. And I’m really happy a few more people recognise what a player there is.

“Against the Netherlands, I realised more that he’s a really good player.”

Klopp then turned his attention to striker Divock Origi, who is enjoying a promising debut season after signing from Lille for £10million in summer 2014.

Origi has started just six league games this season, but has scored two goals, and netted hat-trick against Southampton in the Capital One Cup.

“He’s on a really good way, interrupted by occasional injuries. When we came we knew his quality but saw he was short of confidence.

“He’s still 20, still young, it’s a long way to go and a big space to improve. He’s made big steps. When we started here, he tried to do too much. Now he uses his physical strength, technical skills and speed better.

“The future is exciting. With his quality, three or four steps (forward), then two back is normal.

“Look around the world. 20-year-old strikers? Strikers need experience. So it’s good,” added Klopp.