Klopp took the interesting decision of playing England worldwide midfielder James Milner at left-back against Barcelona.
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Before the match, it was announced that Daniel Sturridge, Liverpool’s gifted but made-of-glass striker, was once again sidelined because of a hip injury.
“It is not too good, it’s something to do with his heel”, said the Reds boss. “And if we have a proper line-up, which we can have of course for next week, then we will be strong”.
Liverpool led through Mane’s first goal in a Reds shirt after a slick 15th-minute move involving Adam Lallana and Roberto Firmino. The sight of Kevin Stewart robbing the World Cup-winner Sergio Busquets and playing in Divock Origi to run beyond the defence and score the third was something to behold.
The forward then turned provider for his team’s second goal after stealing the ball on the right side and then playing in a risky cross which was diverted home by Mascherano for an own goal in the 47th minute.
There was more bad news for Liverpool as Marko Grujic, who scored against Barcelona with a superb header, limped off with an ankle injury in the first half.
Jurgen Klopp’s high-pressing style was in evidence against Lionel Messi and co, who are well behind Liverpool in their preparation as La Liga does not start until August 20. “The best news is that everyone came through it without getting injured, It all makes us keener than ever to get back to training and prepare for the next game”.
“If we lose organisation in a moment, it can happen”.
Liverpool is one of the biggest clubs in World Football, and should regularly be competing for the top honours. The Spaniard made a number of bad errors last season and Klopp must now surely be looking to sign an alternative before the transfer window shuts at the end of this month.
“We have to remember, and it is the most important thing, that it is pre-season and not an official game”.
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“But as a spectacle, for the fans and the stadium, we have to look at the positive side of things”. Mane scores his first Liverpool goal, smashing a finish high into the net after some nice passing from Lallana and Firmino.
