To Jurgen Klopp’s delight, it wasn’t the case against Brentford, despite the fact that Liverpool has looked hesitant and uneasy in their defense against set pieces this season.
The manager praised the defensive set piece performance to Sky Sports after the game on Saturday, saying, “It was the best defensive set piece session I ever saw in my life against the best defensive set piece team I’ve ever played.”.
In spite of the fact that the Bees only received 19 free kicks and three corners at Anfield because of their stop-start style of play, it felt like they received much more than that.
However, the Reds only allowed Brentford one shot on goal, and after notable defensive lapses throughout the season, Klopp was undoubtedly encouraged by what he saw against a team that has netted 11 set-piece goals in 2022–23.
In his post-game press conference, Klopp described the performance as “great, great.”. It was the best defensive set-piece session I’ve ever seen, I’ve said it now a few times.
“Brentford has a lot of good qualities, but the sets are really unique.
“The focus and concentration we showed today against the best set-piece team I’ve ever played [was great], I told the boys straight after the game.
The goalkeeper takes the ball from the halfway line or inside his own half, and eight players line up. We or they created 50 to 60 set-pieces, including throw-ins, corners, and free kicks. Super difficult.
“Everyone in this line of eight that we had there as well stood up today; they were really fully aware of the necessity in these circumstances. It was excellent. ”.
Even with yellow cards hanging over the heads of Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, and Fabinho, Liverpool was impressive in how they held the Bees at bay.
The Reds have given up six goals straight from set-pieces this Premier League season, but it isn’t always the first ball that gets them; more often than not, it’s the second or third.
Their confidence from having now won six straight games, with the last five victories all coming by a single goal, is undoubtedly the reason why their feathers were rarely ruffled at Anfield.
With Klopp already planning for the following season, it is clear how important it is for the manager to see the team’s resiliency.
Also,
In regards to the transfer of Alexis MacAllister, Liverpool and Brighton have not yet begun negotiations
According to reports, Liverpool have not yet initiated negotiations with Brighton about the acquisition of Alexis MacAllister and the Seagulls are not ‘expecting’ contact from the Reds.
Earlier this week, there were numerous reports claiming Liverpool had jumped out in front in the race to sign the Argentine.
The World Cup champion is one of Jurgen Klopp’s top targets as he looks to overhaul his midfield this summer.
Before leaving for the World Cup, Mac Allister agreed to a new contract with the team. After his outstanding performances there, his value soared.
According to reports, Liverpool was confident of securing a deal for as little as £65 million, which would be significantly less than Brighton’s £85 million asking price for fellow midfielder Moises Caicedo.
The Athletic also claims that the reports are unfounded because Liverpool has “yet” to initiate negotiations with Brighton.
The estimated worth of Alexis Mac Allister is £80 million.
It’s even been said that the Seagulls do not anticipate Liverpool to move, but that is still uncertain.
In recent weeks, Jurgen Klopp has used Trent Alexander-Arnold in a hybrid midfield role, and the England star has thrived in a role that allows him to use more of his creativity.
The German said that Alexander-Arnold’s long-term position will depend on who Liverpool signs this summer in his post-match remarks following the 1-0 victory over Brentford.
In response to a question about the defender staying in midfield, Klopp said, “I think so.”. In the long run, we will assess our options.
It depends on the new players we sign and who can play multiple positions, it’s obvious, but it fits him perfectly.
“I think the opportunity he created for Darwin was, once more, a very, very special ball to play there [and] he’s very strong defensively.”. ’.