- Jurgen Klopp explains why he has to rotate his Liverpool team
- German made six changes to starting lineup for Saturday’s win over Brighton
- Forward Sadio Mane was unused substitute in 5-1 victory
- SEE MORE: Watch Simon Mignolet produce crucial reflex save v Brighton
Jurgen Klopp admits the tough winter schedule is forcing him to regularly rotate Liverpool’s starting lineup.
The Reds lined up against Brighton with six changes having been made to the team that beat Stoke in midweek as Klopp again flexed the strength in depth at his disposal.
Whilst injuries have contributed to Klopp’s alterations, it has primarily been the hectic festive period that has triggered the German to rest key players when possible.
Liverpool offered further evidence to suggest it is working by cruising to an emphatic 5-1 win over Chris Hughton’s side.
Discussing his rotation, Klopp told Liverpoolfc.com: “We have to do it. It’s always intense. When you look in the dressing room after the game, they are all really done.”
“We changed again six times, but it’s really hard for the boys. Now we play Wednesday in a very, very important game against Moscow and then we play the derby on Sunday.”
“That’s the life of the players with the games that are coming up; we need the results. I am happy about [our form].”
“Results-wise it looks like we are flying but unfortunately it is not [like this] because we have to work really hard for it, but that’s OK.”
Sadio Mane was rested again on Saturday having also started on the bench in last week’s 1-1 draw against Chelsea at Anfield.
Having been a standout performer in Wednesday’s win over Stoke, the Senegalese forward’s spot on the sidelines served as a welcomed reminder of Klopp’s array of attacking options.
Liverpool’s last three games have also included starts for the likes of Daniel Sturridge, Dominic Solanke and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, with Adam Lallana also back in the mix following his return from a three-month injury layoff.
The return of valuable contributors has fittingly coincided with Liverpool rediscovering their form after a mixed couple of months.
Liverpool are ready for the notoriously gruelling Christmas period.