The Liverpool squad showed great character this season, said manager Jürgen Klopp after the Merseyside outfit drew 3-3 with Aston Villa, bidding farewell to fans in his last away game.
Liverpool seemed poised to secure three points in Klopp’s penultimate game, leading 3-1, but substitute Jhon Duran’s goals in the 85th and 88th minutes saw the teams draw on Monday.
Klopp was not only supported by Liverpool fans, who paid tribute to his nine years at the club, but also received applause from home fans as he descended the Villa Park tunnel.
“I know it’s the last time, but it doesn’t feel like it. The fans have always been absolutely amazing. What they’ve done, where they’ve been, we’ve asked them to travel a lot over the years. It’s a wonderful relationship,” Klopp told reporters.
After Liverpool won the League Cup in February, it seemed they could clinch the title, but Klopp’s team saw their hopes dashed after a string of poor results last month.
Reflecting on his season, the German coach said finishing third is still a source of pride. “Where we’ve come from (third place) is also a statement,” he added.
“For me, the story of the season is that the guys have a very, very good character and a sensational attitude. That’s why we were here today and that’s why we already have 79 points.”
“I’m not too happy with that, but it’s obvious that for a week or two we had to accept that we can’t be the best or second-best team in the league, (but) it’s a good foundation for the future and that’s all you can ask for,” he concluded.
Liverpool hosts Wolverhampton on Sunday, in a game that will be Klopp’s last at Anfield, at least as Liverpool manager.