Joey Barton always has something to say, doesn’t he?
Back in 2017, the controversial ex-con Barton, who now manages Fleetwood Town, branded Klopp a ‘giant German cheerleader,’ [Esquire] – but the former Manchester City midfielder has now retracted his words…
The fact Klopp earned 97 points in the Premier League last season, won the Champions League and is ten wins from 11 games this time around so far proves Barton’s original comments were moronic – but in fairness – anybody with half a brain already recognised Klopp’s genius already.
“I don’t think Liverpool back in the day [during his playing career] were anywhere near as strong as they are now with the fans and the belief,” Barton began.
“I’ve been critical of Jurgen Klopp, certainly when I was working for talkSPORT, I didn’t feel they were learning lessons.
“But I think they are the most improved team and his is the most improved coach in the last three years.
“He has that, I dare say, Shankly feel to him.
“He has lifted the whole city and Liverpool really firmly believe.
“I live in the city and I’m just hoping Everton can get on the coat tails and latch onto that energy to improve themselves.”
Klopp’s reputation is already confirmed. He was named Manager of the Year at the FIFPRO awards this year and his Champions League win will cement a legacy.
But with the team he’s created at Anfield, it’s now time to start collecting trophies.
We won the Super Cup this year, and will hopefully add the Club World Championships before Christmas.
In order to do so, we’ll likely exit the EFL Cup, but who knows – perhaps our U23s will overcome Aston Villa in what will be a monumental shock!
Really though, it’s the Premier League every Red is focussing on. The match against Manchester City this weekend may give us a clear as to where it’s heading.