James Milner reveals his first impressions of Liverpool FC boss Jurgen Klopp
The Liverpool vice captain speaks about his first impressions of charismatic German head coach Jurgen Klopp
James Milner has admitted that he was struck by Jurgen Klopp’s enthusiasm when the German coach was appointed as Liverpool FC boss in October 2015.
The 50-year-old was named as Brendan Rodgers’ successor following a 1-1 draw with Everton in the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.
The German’s first game in charge was at White Hart Lane and Liverpool FC battled to a credible 0-0 draw with Tottenham Hotspur.
Liverpool FC secured impressive victories at Chelsea FC and Manchester City in the opening two months of his reign to create a buzz around Anfield.
Klopp earned a reputation as a top European coach during his decorated spell in charge of Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund.
The charismatic head coach led Dortmund to two Bundesliga titles and the Champions League final at Wembley in 2013.
Liverpool FC vice captain Milner spoke about his first impressions about the Reds boss following his appointment almost three years ago.
“[It was] intense. He loves his job and loves football. He is passionate. He wants to be out there on the field with you,” Milner told Premier League productions.
“His first game was Spurs away and the tempo of that game was ridiculous; they play a high tempo as well and it was his first game.
“We played a pressing game under Brendan as well, but I just remember the intensity and the tempo. It was so early in his reign.
“He was trying to get his ideas across quickly but not too much too soon. It’s a long way from what we do now. I remember, in the first few sessions, him trying to get that across.”
Retired England international Milner moved to Liverpool FC from Manchester City in a free transfer in the 2015 summer transfer window.
The Reds midfielder is still looking to win his first piece of silverware at Anfield following losses in the Europa League and the League Cup finals in 2015-16.
