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Klopp in hot water with agent of Liverpool star, who rips confusing tactics apart

The advisor for Liverpool midfielder Naby Keita has blasted manager Jurgen Klopp’s decision not to play his client against Chelsea.

The Reds earned a 1-1 draw against Thomas Tuchel’s side at Anfield, after conceding in the first half. Indeed, Mohamed Salah’s penalty put the sides on level terms. However, Liverpool could have taken the win in the second half had they found a killer chance. Reece James received a red card in the build-up to the equaliser.

Chelsea subsequently defended deep and, despite Liverpool’s best efforts, they could not find a winner.

Klopp brought Thiago Alcantara on to replace Jordan Henderson in an effort to find a spark. But he left Keita on the bench, much to the angst of his agent.

Malick Kebe wrote on Twitter: “It’s really hard for me to understand Klopp, you have to be him to put Naby Keita on the bench right now in his form.

“Your super coach is solely responsible for this draw against Chelsea.”

The Guinea international has struggled to make his mark since arriving at Liverpool in 2018 as a then-club-record signing from RB Leipzig.

Injuries have largely held him back, but he enjoyed a strong pre-season. As a result, he featured for 83 and 81 minutes in earlier wins over Norwich and Burnley this season.

In a separate post, Kebe wrote a detailed explanation about why Keita would have helped unlock Chelsea’s low block.

He pointed out that Keita won more duels than any other player in Liverpool’s opening two wins. Meanwhile, his “enormous physical stamina” also helped the Reds.

Keita agent blasts Klopp decision

He added: “The worst thing is not even the fact that he was taken out of the eleven but that he was not even used. With James’ red, Chelsea have pulled back their block. How could they not use Naby to have a better grip on the game and create interesting attacking situations.

“His ability to distil sharp passes and to play vertically is well known. We have seen Liverpool suffer from a lack of inspiration. But no, Klopp instead brings in a player who hasn’t done any prep work and is less sharp. I’m not sure I’m going to be able to do that.

“But when he’s in good rhythm, why deprive him of minutes when he needs them so badly? Especially in this type of match.”

Keita has made 78 appearances for Liverpool, contributing seven goals and four assists.

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