Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp addressed the media today ahead of his side’s clash with West Ham tomorrow night, and singled out Michail Antonio and Manuel Lanzini as potential danger men, as quoted by the Liverpool Echo.
The Hammers play host to the Reds in the Premier League tomorrow night, and the two sides’ respective campaigns could not have been anymore different up to now.
West Ham are currently sitting in 17th spot in the Premier League table, level on points with 19th placed Watford.
Liverpool, meanwhile, are sitting pretty at the top of the pile, 16 points ahead of second placed Manchester City.
Jurgen Klopp suggested that he is expecting a tough test at the London Stadium tomorrow night, however, as quoted by the Liverpool Echo:
“West Ham fight for the league and that is what it looks like. A big fight. Four or five at the back, different possibilities but we have to be ready. They have no time to waste. It will be just a tough one. We can do what we have to do. Fight, set the intensity level. Antonio and Lanzini could play and it will be tough but that is what the Premier League is all about.”
The German’s comments on Michail Antonio are fair enough. The 29-year-old possesses real pace and power, and offer West Ham something totally unique when he plays.
But his remarks on Lanzini are baffling. The Argentine has been absolutely awful for the Hammers this season.
In 17 Premier League appearances this season, the Argentine has failed to score and has registered just two assists.
Lanzini has a shooting accuracy of just 33.33% and has created only two big chances (premierleague.com).
It is clear to see for every West Ham fan that the South American has been a shadow of his former self this season.
The Hammers are desperate for Lanzini to get out of his slump. And perhaps Klopp’s comments today will provide him with the boost that he needs to do just that.
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