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LIVERPOOL, England (Reuters) – Anfield was empty, Liverpool’s team exhausted from injury and it was not a period performance, but a 1-0 win over Ajax Amsterdam on Tuesday left manager Juergen Klopp with pride.
“Honestly, since I’ve been in Liverpool it feels like one of the most important nights in the Champions League. Without fans, it was the most important, the most difficult, the most exceptional,” he said.
“Under the circumstances, there hasn’t been much to smile about, it’s been tough and the guys jump into the game,” said the German after his team secured first place in Group D.
“Robbo (Andy Robertson) has a proper ankle bump and shoves himself, Hendo (Jordan Henderson) with back pain, Gini (Wijnaldum) – I have no words for him. Curtis Jones, what a game, he’s amazing, I am very proud “.
Jones, 19, was the winner of the second half and was one of the brightest players in the midfield battle.
“Curtis is a really good boy, a good player and I am happy to have him around. Sometimes with injuries, there is always an opportunity and he has taken it,” he said.
Klopp had to deal with another headache before the game, with goalkeeper Alisson Becker ruled out with a hamstring strain, and Irish Under-21 goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher was chosen ahead of more experienced Adrian.
“I really think Adrian has done a fantastic job for us, he kept a lot of clean sheets, he played everywhere. But now we needed Caoimhin Kelleher’s natural ability to play football. He is a good shot stopper too. We made that decision. “. but you never know how they will do it. I’m very happy with how calm it was and how good it was, “Klopp said.
Kelleher made a vital save in the final moments to secure all three points.
“That’s what I’m there for, I work every day in practice to make sure I’m ready and that I can make some good saves,” he said.
“It was amazing for me, making my debut in the Champions League was huge, we got the win and we qualified. A great night.”
(Reporting by Simon Evans; Editing by Clare Fallon)
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