Klopp shuts down Lovren talk; admits Liverpool man could be happier

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Jurgen Klopp has refused to comment on Dejan Lovren’s situation at Liverpool, while admitting Xherdan Shaqiri is not the “happiest player” at Anfield.

Centre-back Lovren has been linked with Roma with the Serie A club this week reportedly renewing their interest in the player, who is down the pecking order at Anfield.

The 30-year-old has still not featured for the Reds this season, but reports have claimed Liverpool have rejected the advances of Roma leaving the Italians to snap up Chris Smalling on loan.

The Reds boss was asked about the Croatian’s situation early in Friday’s news conference, but he was far from happy talking about Lovren’s situation.

“We don’t talk about transfers in this press conference, there’s nothing to say about it, when I say I need them, I need them.

“Last season we had four CBs and there was even a game in CL where we played with Fabinho at the back. We need all of our players.”

Asked if the transfer windows in Europe need aligning, he said: “Yes, of course Ivve said this before and I’ve not changed my mind in a week.

“Italy, Germany, Spain all still open, They are proper competitors and that is not how it should be. We are all set, we don’t like it.”

 

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Klopp again towed the line of emphasising that his squad are as equally important, although he did admit Shaqiri will be unhappy, although he has not shown it publicly.

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“We need them all 100 per cent. That’s the most important part of the season, the first four weeks,” said Klopp. “This is not a moment for a lot of changes but after the international break that will change.”

Asked about Shaqiri’s situation, he added: “Brilliant. Shaq is training well. In training Shaq doesn’t have to show anything special in any way. He just has to keep his level.

“We need him, he knows that. Is he the happiest player? I don’t think so. Does he show that? No.”

The Reds boss, who admitted he may “make small changes” for Saturday’s game with Burnley, knows his side are in for a tough examination: “Turf Moor tough place to go. We have been there, hot, wind and rain and it is always difficult.

“Tough place. They do an incredible job, that is how it is. Last time was intense, We had discussions with Sean Dyche and we are both proper competitors. But it’s respectful.”