Jurgen Klopp says Steven Gerrard will “definitely” become Liverpool boss

Liverpool are preparing to host Aston Villa tomorrow afternoon and will be hoping to make it five successive victories in the Premier League.

Jurgen Klopp has spoken on Steven Gerrard’s return, Nat Phillips and more.

Here are the key points from today’s press conference...

Gerrard back to Anfield

Steven Gerrard is set to return to the Anfield dugout for the first time since he became Rangers boss in 2018.

Liverpool’s clash with Aston Villa will come exactly a month after Gerrard was appointed manager at Villa Park and it is set to be an emotional day for the club and its fans.

When asked about Gerrard, Klopp said: "Wonderful story. I can't imagine how he's feeling. I know he said no sentiments.

“Stevie is an experienced manager and knows exactly how to approach games. But he probably has no idea how it'll feel stepping out at the stadium.

"We are all professionals and we will go with all we have. Stevie will get the best reception because he deserves it but in the 95 minutes we need everyone behind us."

Gerrard to become Liverpool boss

Steven Gerrard’s contract with Aston Villa ends in 2024 - the same year as Klopp’s will expire with the Reds.

There has been plenty of talk about the 41-year-old taking over at Anfield.

When asked if he thinks it will happen, Klopp said: "Yes. Absolutely. But when is the right moment to take the job. I think it will definitely happen and it will be good for everybody."

Is Fabinho underrated?

Fabinho has been fantastic for Liverpool this season and has been a staple in the Reds’ midfield.

When asked if the midfielder is underrated, Klopp said: "After one day working with him, you want him in your team definitely.

“He doesn't need public praise. It's all fine. Who cares? He's a top, top, top, top class player."

Phillips out for a month

Nat Phillips was handed a start against AC Milan mid-week and impressed Liverpool fans but Jurgen Klopp has now confirmed he has fractured his cheekbone.

““Nat, what a story. Unfortunately it’s broke.

“Not as bad as it could have been. No surgery, he can train pretty much from next week. But need to be careful.

“How long it will take, I don’t know. Four or five weeks.”

Diogo Jota & Divock Origi

Diogo Jota was absent from Liverpool’s matchday squad against AC Milan midweek and Klopp has confirmed he felt something after their win against Wolves last weekend.

The Portugal international hasn’t trained but Klopp admitted he ‘could train today’ and be available for tomorrow’s fixture.

Klopp also confirmed that Divock Origi will be ‘fine’ after scoring twice in the past week for the Merseyside club.