In slightly over eight years as Liverpool manager, Jurgen Klopp has encountered and achieved a great deal. However, on Sunday, he will confront a unique and unprecedented experience in his tenure at Anfield.
The Reds are to visit Luton Town this weekend for their first league encounter since 1992. Thus, marking the first meeting in any competition in nearly 16 years.
Over the summer, the Kenilworth Road stadium of the Hatters garnered substantial online attention. This was primarily due to the away supporters’ entrance being beneath a private residence. Set along a line of redbrick terraced houses.
During his pre-match press conference on Friday morning, Klopp expressed his anticipation about visiting the Bedfordshire club for the first time. Nevertheless, he also anticipates that Rob Edwards’ side will pose a formidable challenge for Liverpool. Thus, likely employing a tactical approach designed to make life difficult for the Reds.
What did Liverpool manager Klopp say?
Klopp said: “I heard about it [Kenilworth Road] but I didn’t see it yet. It’s one ground I haven’t been to before; I’m looking forward to it. I heard the dressing room isn’t massive, but all I need is a pitch, an opponent and us there. It’s exciting, I love the story.”
Luton’s remarkable ascent from the National League to the Premier League in just nine years stands as one of the most extraordinary success stories in contemporary football. Those involved in this incredible journey deserve enormous recognition and praise.
Understandably, their experience in the top flight has been challenging, as they’ve managed to collect just five points from their first ten games, with only one of those points earned at home. However, they will relish moments like this when the spotlight and expectations are firmly on Liverpool to secure a win.
Klopp’s caution regarding the Hatters’ set-piece threat is well-founded, as they have scored three of their nine league goals this season from dead-ball situations, accounting for 33.3% of their goals. According to WhoScored, only Everton has a higher percentage of set-piece goals in the Premier League at 50%. So, it’s not a mere stereotype to suggest that Luton could pose a genuine danger from this particular avenue.
Additionally, Luton boasts significant pace in their attacking lineup, with players like Chiedozie Ogbene, indicating that they are far from being a one-dimensional, direct-approach team. This promises to provide an intriguing and unique away day experience for the Liverpool fans traveling to Kenilworth Road. Hopefully, they’ll not only relish their visit to the stadium. But also depart with three valuable points to bring back to Merseyside.
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