Klopp introduces new faces to training to freshen things up for Chelsea clash

A number of Liverpool’s youth prospects joined Jurgen Klopp’s first-team training session on Wednesday ahead of this weekend’s huge clash against Chelsea.

The Reds just about saw off newly-promoted Leeds United on the opening day of the season, but were made to work hard for it in a dramatic 4-3 victory at Anfield.

And things don’t get any easier on Sunday as they take on a Blues side who have made a number of impressive signings and comfortably beat Brighton 3-1 in their first match.

While the usual faces were hard at work during the training session at Melwood, a number of lesser spotted members of the squad also joined in the action.

One of them was U18 France international Billy Koumetio, who looked delighted to be mingling with some of Liverpool’s star names.

The 17-year-old centre-back signed his first professional contract with the club last month, making his debut in the pre-season match against Stuttgart, and it would be no surprise to see him involved in domestic cup games in the near future.

Fellow young defender Sepp van den Berg was also present, and he appeared to be enjoying a spot of football-tennis.

New signing Kostas Tsimikas and Saturday’s hat-trick hero Mohamed Salah were also seen smiling together, and there seemed to be a good spirit around the training ground.

Meanwhile Klopp has spoken out about his long-term plans, and has refused to rule out staying at Liverpool beyond his current contract, which expires in 2024.

Speaking to Leeroy Matata of Einfach Fussbal on YouTube, Klopp said: “A lot of people ask me this question .I have never heard someone ask Pep Guardiola about that but his contract ends next year.

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“I’ve got four years left which feels like an eternity in football. A lot can happen during this time. I would assume that in four years I will think about whether to renew or not.

“If I don’t renew, I’ll go on holiday. When I leave Liverpool, I won’t take a new job the next day. That’s for sure. I will take a one-year break after Liverpool.”