Klopp wary of Benteke threat, discusses Milner blow

Daniel Storey

Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool are wary of the threat Christian Benteke poses as the Belgian prepares to face his former side on Saturday.

Liverpool signed Benteke for £32.5million in the summer, but sold him just one year later to Crystal Palace after he struggled to establish himself in the first team.

The striker scored ten times in 40 appearances at the club, but most of his games came as a substitute.

Klopp sold Benteke in the summer to Palace, who they face on Saturday, and he is wary of his former charge’s talents.

“We couldn’t change it and I’m pretty sure Christian thought the same, so it made sense to make the transfer,” he said.

“We had to make decisions. I’m always honest. My door is always open. The agreement we have is work hard.

“We know him best as we had him all the time in training.

“He always showed his quality in the area where he is really strong. He’s not only good at heading but he is especially good at heading.

“Every player needs the space to develop and show things.”

The Liverpool boss also discussed his side’s fitness ahead of the trip to Selhurst Park, with left-back James Milner a potential absentee due to illness.

“We have a few knocks,” Klopp said. “Millie was ill on Tuesday. Yesterday he did a running session. We will see how he is today.”