Klopp Blasts Nonexistent Press in Newcastle Defeat

Much of the post-match chatter surrounding Liverpool's 2-0 loss to Newcastle is focused on the team's peculiar lack of pressing in the final third. Jürgen Klopp confirmed that the lack of pressure was not by design, and he expressed disappointment at the lack of energy from his attackers.

"Our defending in the last line was good, but our midfield pressing was not good, and I couldn't see offensive pressing," Klopp said after the match. "They didn't really create chances, but neither did we. It was an open game, but there was no rhythm from us in our game."

"Obviously it was not a good football game," he added.

Pressing is an essential facet of Liverpool's identity under Klopp, and against a team susceptible to mistakes at the back, it was bizarre to see the team's attacking band play so relaxed. Christian Benteke appeared especially unwilling to chase down Newcastle defenders, and his pressing effort is something to keep an eye on going forward.

Klopp also spoke about his general feeling surrounding the defeat.

"This team has big quality. We like to work together, but today we got beat," he said. "We can't ignore this. In professional football, if you don't feel defeats, then something is really wrong. We feel this defeat. It's deserved, but it hurts, like it should."