Klopp concerned about players ahead of international break amid unclear coronavirus protocols

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp questioned FIFA over its lack of control over coronavirus protocols, saying he was concerned about his players ahead of the international break.

Klopp’s men visit Manchester City in a blockbuster Premier League clash on Sunday, before players head away with their national teams.

The German said he would welcome more power for clubs if they were unable to get answers over COVID-19 protocols from nations.

“I am concerned in the moment with all these kinds of things,” Klopp told reporters.

“For us, it feels safer when we are all together even though we had some cases as well, not too many but some, and none for a while, which is good, but this is the time we are living in.

“The problem with that situation is we have no power. Not really. We try to find out how the protocols are with all the different FAs but it’s up to the FA to answer or not, so FIFA is not really involved in that.

“That would be a massive help if you don’t get a reply from an FA, for example, then we don’t send a player.

“That would be great because you would 100 per cent get a reply then. And then you would know that all the protocols are fine.”

The international break continues a busy schedule for players, with Liverpool returning to action at home to Leicester City on November 21 – the first of 11 games to finish the year.

This should put you in the mood for tomorrow, Reds 

Enjoy some of our best goals against @ManCity… pic.twitter.com/aGfoVaGemN

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) November 7, 2020

Klopp said he was worried about the international fixtures amid a chaotic period for players.

“I am concerned not just about COVID but also that playing three games in nine days is massive,” he said.

“And if you would see our travel plans for bringing our players home, well.

“There is a lot that the clubs have to do for themselves because nobody is involved in that as well. It is not my favourite time of the year at all.”

Liverpool are second in the Premier League table, level on points with leaders Southampton ahead of facing City.