Klopp's cup final programme notes: Exclusive extract
Ahead of today's Capital One Cup final with Manchester City at Wembley, read an exclusive extract of Jürgen Klopp's official matchday programme notes on Liverpoolfc.com…
In this excerpt, the Reds boss explains why he and his backroom team have relished every step of the journey en route to the national stadium, and how the occasion is one that is about every member of the squad and not just those that will be selected in the 18 for the contest.
Klopp wrote: “For me and my staff this is our first experience of a final in English football and it has come earlier than we probably would have expected, but of course, this is a good thing.
“In many ways I feel like we have ridden on the journey with the team and the supporters in this competition. The team had already progressed through one round before we arrived, against Carlisle, and the players have worked extremely hard in every single round to arrive where we are today.
“For us, today’s occasion is one for the entire squad of LFC, not just the 18 who will be fortunate enough to be named on the teamsheet this afternoon. Everything we have achieved in this tournament is down to the entire squad; young players, more experienced players – all of them have played some part. Whichever team starts the game, they will be going out there to secure the trophy for all of their teammates and I think that is an excellent motivating factor.
“This competition has afforded players an opportunity to represent LFC and it has given us a chance to see them in the white heat of competitive action where results are king, rather than just friendlies or U21 games. This will be very important for their development and it is why I want them to feel part of this entire journey to a final; it is important they recognise their value to the team and club.”
Jürgen Klopp was talking to the official Capital One Cup final 2016 match programme. It is available to purchase now from O Publishing, priced at £10 plus P&P. Click here to buy>>