‘It was a little bit strange’

Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones has detailed how Jurgen Klopp informed the squad he would be leaving the club at the end of the season.

Klopp confirmed a fortnight ago he would stand down from his position as Reds manager in the summer, bringing the curtain down on a nine-season stay at Anfield.

The German has admitted he told the board of his decision back in November, but only recently decided to tell his players and go public.

Speaking on BBC Sport’s Football Focus, Jones revealed how he and his Liverpool teammates discovered Klopp would be leaving.

“We were in the changing rooms as a team, I was actually inside the gym and we got told everybody has to be inside at half 10,” Jones said.

“He came in and it was a bit of a strange one. We didn’t know what was going to be said but I could feel it amongst the lads, it was a little bit strange.

“He broke the news, it was tough to take and stuff. He’s his own man and you have to respect the fact he’s got his own things that he wants to go and do with his family. He’s turned me from a boy to a man and I’m grateful for him. So is the team, so are the fans and the city and we hope to give him a good send-off.”

Liverpool are still in the hunt for four final trophies ahead of Klopp’s exit. They currently sit top of the Premier League table – though are only two points clear of champions Manchester City having played a game more – and will take on Chelsea in the Carabao Cup final later this month.

The Reds are also into round five of the FA Cup and sealed automatic qualification to the Europa League last 16 by winning their group in the autumn and winter.

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