Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has said his side’s trip to Sunderland on Wednesday will provide another test of their ability to compete with physical opponents.
Klopp predicted that Sam Allardyce’s side would go back to basics after their 4-1 defeat at Manchester City on Boxing Day — and that would reveal whether the Reds could deal with such a threat consistently.
Liverpool beat then league leaders Leicester on Boxing Day after having previously struggled against strong, deep-defending sides such as Crystal Palace and West Bromwich Albion.
“Everybody can imagine what will happen at Sunderland,” Klopp told a news conference. “I think they will go back to their roots, and we know what is waiting for us. We will be prepared.
“What we saw with Leicester was how it’s always about fighting for second balls, and they are really strong when they win these. They are really quick in transition.
“I think second balls will be a big thing to think about for Sunderland, too.”
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