EPL 2016/17: Adam Lallana states that Jurgen Klopp is a good neighbour
Former Southampton captain and England international Adam Lallana claimed Liverpool head coach Jurgen Klopp's a superb neighbour since his appointment as Liverpool boss last season.
Jurgen Klopp took over the reigns at Liverpool from Brendan Rodgers and has revamped the Merseyside club with his passion, aggression and intensity. Lallana made the switch to Anfield from Southampton under Rodgers and struggled to adapt to his new surroundings in his first season at the club.
With the arrival of the German boss, Lallana claims the former Dortmund manager has instilled a sense of belief and responsibility into the Liverpool squad, and the thorough pre-season under Klopp had set the tone for the season.
"I live opposite him so I’ve seen him putting the bins out and stuff," Lallana told Sport magazine.
"He’s a good neighbour. Mainly because I don’t see him too often. Though I’m sure he says the same about me.”
“He’s got a lot of charisma," Lallana added. "There’s a definite aura about him.”
Liverpool currently sits in the third position, behind Manchester City and Arsenal who lead the Premier League on goal difference. A tricky run of early fixtures weathered by Klopp and Liverpool in games against United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham sees the Reds in a strong position heading into the winter months.
Lallana’s transformation under Jurgen Klopp
Lallana has fit brilliantly into Klopp’s setup and has played in a deep-lying role with constant shifts in his position to a more attacking position. The Englishman has netted thrice this season, with vast improvements in the player concerning his play in the final third.
Also read: Adam Lallana: The cog who makes the Liverpool system tick
When asked by Sport magazine about his transformation as a player, Lallana doesn’t buy into the logic, where a manager can transform a player.
“No, I don’t really feel like a transformed man.
“Definitely not since last season. Look, when I first came to Liverpool I had a difficult first season – there’s no two ways about that.
“But maybe that’s a reason why I’ve come out the other side of it and am maybe stronger as a human. I learnt from it and I’m really enjoying myself here now.
“I feel I was as important last season as I am this season to the manager. He’s shown trust and belief in me since he’s come here."
Lallana and Liverpool face a tricky away encounter against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, with the Merseyside club eager to keep pace with the leaders at the top of the table.
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