Neco Williams names ‘incredible’ ex-Liverpool star as Klopp’s best athlete
Liverpool full-back Neco Williams says that former Red Adam Lallana was the “best” athlete in Jurgen Klopp’s squad before his departure.
Lallana left for Brighton in the summer after an illustrious six-year spell at Anfield. But while he was an important figure for ex-manager Brendan Rodgers, he continued such service under Klopp.
Indeed, despite his match minutes waning towards the end of his Liverpool spell, he continued to play a crucial leadership role for younger players such as 19-year-old Williams.
Speaking to Liverpool’s official website, Wales international Williams explained just how much he valued Lallana’s contributions.
“The first day I went up to Melwood, he was there talking to me and giving me advice,” Williams said.
“With Adam, he’s a top athlete and a top player. When my breakout season came, he helped me massively.
“Adz would be a leader on the team and he would be the first one to tell you if you do something bad or give the ball away – he’d be the first one on you.
“But if you do something right or do something well, he’d be the first one to say ‘well done’ and applaud you. Having someone like him in the team was incredible and he massively made me comfortable in the team.
“For me, I’d say he’s one of the best trainers I’ve ever trained with and played with. He’s a top athlete and when we used to do training, in my opinion, he was the best trainer every single day.”
Lallana has continued to support Williams since leaving Anfield. Indeed, in the wake of the teenager receiving online abuse, Lallana hit out at those criticising his former teammate.
Lallana likely to miss Liverpool reunion
Williams’ comments on Lallana come ahead of Liverpool and Brighton’s clash at the Amex Stadium on Saturday.
However, the Seagulls midfielder is unlikely to play a part after recently suffering a groin problem.
Head coach Graham Potter said: “Adam Lallana, we still need to give him a bit more time after the weekend.”
For Liverpool, meanwhile, Klopp faces a late decision on whether to include Jordan Henderson in his squad. The skipper has returned to the training ground but his manager wants to make a late call.
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