Riise: Liverpool need to sign an entire new spine this summer

Jurgen Klopp: Needs several new signings, says Riise

Jurgen Klopp: Needs several new signings, says Riise

John Arne Riise has warned Jurgen Klopp needs to make top-class signings this summer to ensure Liverpool challenges for titles – saying they need to make changes right through the spine of the team.

Riise was part of a Liverpool team which won the Champions League in Istanbul in 2005 and also collected the League Cup in 2003 and the FA Cup in 2006 during his time at Anfield.

New Reds boss Klopp has the chance to land his first piece of silverware on Sunday at Wembley, but former favourite Riise believes major rebuilding work will then be necessary.

“I think that the central lines in every department have to be changed,” he said. “I think we need a goalkeeper, a real leader at centre-back, a central midfielder and also a centre-forward.

“Daniel Sturridge is a fantastic striker but he spends more time on the sidelines than playing – and that is not good for the club.”

Riise backing for Klopp

Riise is delighted, however, with the appointment of Klopp as boss.

“I was very happy when he was appointed Liverpool manager,” he added.

“He demands a lot of effort, hard work and high pressing. His style suits the club perfectly.

“Unfortunately, in recent years, the club has not been challenging for titles and a club like Liverpool should always be challenging for titles, season after season.”