When asked about Spurs’ approach to the game following Liverpool’s slip-up in the EPL battle on Saturday night, Jurgen Klopp criticized them for “time-wasting” before adding he “doesn’t enjoy that style of football.”
Liverpool was held to a 1-1 draw by Antonio Conte’s side, leaving them top of the Premier League table on goal difference, with rivals Manchester City scheduled to play Newcastle later today.
Son Heung-min, who has been exceptional this season, scored Spurs’ 20th league goal of the season in the 56th minute, but the phenomenal Luis Diaz equalized to give the home side a draw.
After the final whistle, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp chastised Antonio Conte’s team for “wasting time,” pointing out their league position.
“For all the praise for Tottenham, a world-class opponent, they won against Manchester City – the gameplay works for these games but they are still fifth and for everything they were time-wasting,” he said. “It makes not easier, it’s smart but not easy.”
Then, during his post-match press conference, Klopp was asked about Spurs’ general game plan.
“I’m sorry I’m the wrong person for that, I don’t like this kind of football,” the German said. “But that’s my personal problem. I think they’re world-class, and I think they should do more for the game.
“I think the game against Liverpool they had 36, 38% possession. But it’s my problem. I cannot coach it. So that’s why I cannot do it. So yes, world-class players block all the balls, really difficult. Atletico Madrid is doing it.
“Fine, they won whatever. Fine, absolutely fine. I just can’t. I respect everything they do, but it’s not me.”
Klopp also mentioned the difficult fixture calendar following the 1-1 draw with Tottenham — a result that keeps them equal on points with City, who have a game in hand against Newcastle on Sunday.
“In these moments we could have been better and in better positions,” he said. “But apart from that, it’s just incredibly difficult to play against an opponent with a world class manager and a full-week to prepare.
“We play every three days it’s so tricky but I’m really fine with the performance.”
