Jurgen Klopp is an old romantic – but the Liverpool boss won’t let his heart rule his head when it comes to the future of football.
Klopp is relishing his first visit to Luton Town’s humble Kenilworth Road. Not only is he full of admiration for the way the Hatters have clawed their way from National League to Premier League, he also has his own precious memories of the time he guided Mainz from the depths of the German second division and into the Bundesliga for the first time in their history. Klopp knows the importance of a club being able to dream.
Two years ago, he argued against the proposed European Super League – even if it might have eased the kind of fixture list that will see Liverpool travel to Manchester City next month, just days after players from both clubs will have been thrown into the maelstrom of a World Cup qualifier between Brazil and Argentina.
Jurgen Klopp names Liverpool player with “frightening potential” to leave fans feverish “I was in a similar situation when we got promoted with Mainz. Because I was in that situation, I respect Luton maybe the most for what they are doing. I love the fact that Luton can play in the Premier League. That is absolutely fantastic.
“Of all the things we want to change and have to change for the future (of football), if there is no way through for one team then it hinders development. These stories must always be possible.”
Liverpool’s journey south with be their 16th game of the season. On Thursday they travel to Toulouse in the Europa League before a home clash with Brentford brings an international break
He describes Luton’s rise back up the pyramid “a fairytale” – but knows those chronicles often involve a giantkilling. “Luton is one of these stories we all like,” said Klopp. “It’s a fairytale and I hope they have a wonderful season – apart from the games against us.
