Klopp defiant despite defeat at Chelsea

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp appeared relaxed about his team’s chances of securing a top-four finish despite their 1-0 defeat at Chelsea.

Olivier Giroud’s header hauled Chelsea into serious contention for a Champions League spot, moving them to within two points of fourth-placed Tottenham and three of third-placed Liverpool.

The Blues have also played a game less than Liverpool, although the Reds have a vastly superior goal difference.

Klopp’s side will end their Premier League campaign at home to Brighton, while Chelsea have two more games – they are at home to Huddersfield on Wednesday and finish the season away at Newcastle next weekend.

“Chelsea has to win a game as well. We are at home and Chelsea are at Newcastle – that doesn’t sound like a holiday trip to me,” Klopp said.

Klopp also played down suggestions that fatigue was a factor in the Champions League finalists’ defeat.

He said: “I didn’t think Chelsea were much fresher than we were. It’s an intense period.

“The boys showed again their outstanding character and I’m completely fine with that.”