“Attitude is not our problem” — Klopp on beating Chelsea

In a dazzling performance at Anfield against Chelsea on Wednesday night, Liverpool secured a commanding 4-1 victory over the Blues, reclaiming a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League.

Diogo Jota initiated the scoring, and Conor Bradley added to the spectacle with a stellar first goal for the club. Dominik Szoboszlai and Luis Diaz sealed the win in the second half, while Christopher Nkunku managed a consolation goal for Chelsea.

Speaking in his post-match press conference, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp shared his thoughts on the standout moments of the win against Chelsea.

He emphasized the importance of the team’s strong start, acknowledging that the match’s narrative could have been different without their early dominance.

“The performance, nothing else to say. Standouts… start, really good, super-important,” Klopp remarked.

He pointed out the significance of the team’s direction and praised the players for their efforts, highlighting the missed chances, goals scored, and even a penalty miss.

Klopp also commended Conor Bradley’s display and the positive “situation” of having both Bradley and Trent Alexander-Arnold as options for the upcoming clash against Arsenal on Sunday.

He acknowledged the vital role played by young talents throughout a demanding schedule in January, recognizing the contributions of players like Bradley, Jarell Quansah, and others.

“No situation, it’s just how it is,” Klopp clarified regarding the selection choices.

He highlighted the necessity of utilizing the squad depth during a hectic schedule and expressed satisfaction with the performances of the younger players who stepped up in the absence of key regulars.

When asked about the team’s attitude and relentlessness, Klopp affirmed that he never takes such qualities for granted. He emphasized that attitude is shaped by the team’s culture, the crowd, and everyone associated with the club.

“Attitude is not our problem, attitude is something we can expect. Attitude is created by the culture. Attitude is created by the crowd. Attitude is created by pretty much everybody around the team. Attitude will not be the issue of this team.” 

Klopp expressed confidence in the team’s joy and excitement but acknowledged the challenge posed by other teams with similar attitudes in the league.

Regarding Conor Bradley’s abilities, Klopp revealed that he has known about the young talent’s quality for a while. Assistant coaches Pep Lijnders and Vitor Matos had sung Bradley’s praises, and Klopp recalled Lijnders stating,

“I’d put both hands in fire for him.”

Despite some injury setbacks, Klopp spoke highly of Bradley’s performances in pre-season and during a loan spell at Bolton.