Klopp explains strengths of Liverpool’s ‘compact’ opponents

Matt Stead

Jurgen Klopp has warned Liverpool to be wary of “compact” and “organised” Champions League opponents Red Star.

Liverpool will hope to get their Champions League campaign back on track when they host Red Star on Wednesday.

The Reds beat PSG in their first game before falling to Napoli, and now face a double header against the weakest team in the group.

But Klopp knows the Serbian SuperLiga champions will be a threat at Anfield – even with two key players missing – and was happy to discuss their strengths in his press conference.

“Defending compact helps a lot,” he said. “Red Star are the dominating side in Serbia, winning 80-90% in their league, but the Champions League is different.

“Whoever they line-up they are a top team in Serbia and that brings confidence. They are used to winning football games, that’s how it is. We have to make sure they do not come in that mood.

“Its rare for a dominating team to switch and defend like they did against Paris.

“They did well against Napoli, who, yes, had more shots on target, but they did well.

“Against PSG, if Neymar starts scoring then nobody can defend that, but it’s all about how they are able to defend and create chances and I know they can do that.

“They have different strikers to line up. They are tall and quick and have good footballers and their full-backs are really leggy and quick and offensive-oriented.

“Red Star have a clear structure. Serbian teams are always organised and they know how to defend and are not scared to be aggressive.

“We have to be prepared to fight for every square metre of the pitch.”