Klopp says Rafa deserves welcome back to Anfield 'like an old friend'
Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool fans are welcome to treat Rafa Benitez like 'an old friend' when he makes his return to Anfield tomorrow.
Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool fans are welcome to treat Rafa Benitez like 'an old friend' when he makes his return to Anfield tomorrow.
The return of Benitez, his second as an opposing manager after his previous spell as interim Chelsea boss in 2013, is expected to be warmly welcomed by Anfield.
Klopp is familiar with the situation, having made his return to former club Borussia Dortmund in the Europa League earlier this month, and has no issue with fans celebrating the occasion.
"I really like Rafa, we have met a few times,'' said the German."
"From my point of view, if someone wants to celebrate Rafa Benitez in memory of Istanbul or whatever - he is one of the most successful managers at Liverpool - they are very welcome"
"I don't care about that. If they want, do. Be louder than you have ever been, that is absolutely okay."
"That is how I would say hello to a good old friend, so no-one has to ignore this wonderful moment because I am here now."
"Do what you feel and if it is very good, show it.''
Meanwhile the Reds boss has confirmed Divock Origi's injury but is hopeful it doesn't mean the end of his season.
"The season is not over without taking any risk of the player, that's how it is"
"I am long enough in this to know we are all different, all individuals so we don't have to make any general thing. We only have to work with him and see what will happen. It is the same with Emre Can"