Kenny Cunningham: Why Jurgen Klopp needs to guide Liverpool to Europa League glory

Kenny Cunningham says winning the Europa League would convince the Liverpool squad of Jurgen Klopp’s ability.

The Reds edged a step closer the to the quarter-final stage after Thursday night’s 2-0 victory over bitter rivals Manchester United.

England striker Daniel Sturridge made the breakthrough for the hosts from the penalty spot after Nathaniel Clyne was hauled down by United winger Memphis Depay.

Roberto Firmino scored his first Europa League goal of the season in the second half to hand Liverpool a commanding 2-0 lead ahead of their return trip to Old Trafford next week.

Klopp lost his first cup final as Liverpool manager after Manchester City beat the Reds on penalties in the League Cup showpiece.

Cunnignham told Newstalk: “For Klopp, in terms of bringing players in and players buying into what he is asking, the performances and the results have been a little haphazard.

“People haven’t questioned the manager, but as a player, you have a slight doubt if this fella is the real deal. Is he really going to take us where we want?

“If they go deep into this competition and to the Europa League final that sort of belief and confidence would spread through the team. The manager would have the respect from the players.”

Cunningham added: “It is significant how Liverpool do in this competition and it is important for Klopp going forward.”

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Liverpool are in sixth place in the Premier League table after a 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park in their last top-flight game last weekend.