Jurgen Klopp defends Mohamed Salah | VIDEO

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has leaped to the defence of Mohamed Salah after his subdued start to the new season.

The 26-year-old scored in Liverpool’s opening game of the season against West Ham – and again two weeks later against Brighton – but has failed to hit the target in his last three appearances. Klopp opted to take Salah off during the Champions League clash with PSG on Tuesday and the Egyptian was seen throwing a water bottle to the ground after Roberto Firmino’s late winner. ‘Of course everybody expects [the same Mo Salah as last year],’ Klopp said at his pre-match press conference on Friday afternoon.

‘But we don’t. What did he get [in his first six games] last season? Three. And two in six this season? Wow, that’s a crisis. ‘He needed time last year, like we all needed time. And he will take time this season as well.’ Klopp added: ‘On a defensive side, his last two games were outstanding. He’s ready to work for the team in these moments. ‘He’s still a threat in offensive situations. Finishing is something you can never take for granted.’ Klopp will oversee his 600th competitive match as a manager when Liverpool welcome Southampton to Anfield on Saturday.

Watch the full press-conference.

LIVE from Melwood with Jürgen Klopp. ?

Find out all the latest team news ahead of our @premierleague meet with Southampton. https://t.co/2ELPLS2IuN

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) September 21, 2018