Jurgen Klopp told Liverpool FC need to follow Rafael Benitez’s example
Ian Wright says Jurgen Klopp should follow Rafael Benitez's approach to moulding a solid defence
Ian Wright has urged Jurgen Klopp to adopt Rafael Benitez’s approach to defensive work on the training ground.
Liverpool have struggled defensively so far this season to raise questions about Klopp’s ability to coach his back four.
The Reds have already conceded a staggering 12 goals in seven games to leave Liverpool in seventh place.
The Merseyside outfit surrendered a lead at St James’ Park on Sunday afternoon as shoddy defending led to Joselu cancelled out Philippe Coutinho’s brilliant opener.
Liverpool attempted to sign Virgil van Dijk in the summer transfer window but failed to agree a deal with Southampton for the Netherlands international.
Klopp didn’t identify a second-choice centre-half signing to leave the Liverpool boss with Ragnar Klavan, Dejan Lovren and Joel Matip.
However, former Arsenal legend Wright believes Klopp could improve the Liverpool defence if Klopp followed Benitez’s example at Newcastle.
“Rafael Benitez will stop the [training] session to show his defenders how to learn. That’s all Liverpool need to do,” Wright told BBC Radio 5 Live.
“Even with players that people think aren’t as good as they should be. As individuals you can improve, so Liverpool as a group can improve.”
Benitez put together a formidable Liverpool defence during his spell in charge of the Merseyside club.
Indeed, the Reds won the Champions League in 2005 against the odds thanks to a penalty shootout victory over AC Milan.
