Klopp explains role of ‘secret sauce’ in Liverpool success
Jurgen Klopp says that Liverpool’s strength must come from within in the face of adversity and that the trust they have in the group can be their “secret sauce” this season.
The hectic schedule continues on Wednesday as Liverpool host Atalanta in the Champions League after an impressive 3-0 win over Leicester to go second in the Premier League.
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Klopp’s programme notes ahead of the game expanded on a point made by “outstanding” James Milner after the win over the Foxes, that the togetherness of the squad is more important now than ever.
Klopp writes (via the official Liverpool website): “I mention that we are all about the collective here and I think our performance against Leicester demonstrated that.
“That wasn’t just a win for the players who got game minutes. It was a win for the players who helped us prepare also and were ready if called upon to step up.
“James Milner – who played an outstanding game – OUTSTANDING – spoke so well afterwards. He barely said one word about himself, even though his was a performance you would sing a happy song about.
“Instead he talked about the overall contribution and included those who didn’t feature in the actual game but will in the coming days and weeks.
“It is so important that every player recognises their importance now and acts to look after themselves the best they can. In this season, more than any other, every member of our group will play a role if we are to achieve anything. It has always been the case with us, but the circumstances around us in this moment makes it even more so.
“As difficult as it has been recently, it does present an amazing opportunity. We saw in the performance against Leicester City just how determined and together we are. I saw a group who is full of courage and full of fight.
“We are going to need all our qualities from now until May. We will need to squeeze from ourselves more than we have ever done previously.
“I have complete faith in our group, from the most experienced player through to our youngest. Our performances so far, in the face of adversity, shows me these boys believe in what we do but more importantly they believe in each other. They trust each other. They are invested in each other. That can be our ‘secret sauce’.
“It is clear nothing is going to change externally to make this more tolerable for the athletes. But they have us to help and support and they have each other for inspiration.
“And, although not there in person to lend noise and visual stimulation, they have the energy from our supporters. Anfield was empty on Sunday night and will be again tonight. But against Leicester you saw players embracing the responsibility of producing something of pride and joy for their fans.
“This will be our objective again tonight. I can’t guarantee what the outcome will be, but I can promise we will give all we have until the very end.”
