Jurgen Klopp Defends Jose Mourinho's Tactics Ahead of Derby Clash

Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp has defended Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho's defensive tactics before the two clubs meet in the Premier League on Saturday.

According to Andy Hunter of the Guardian, Klopp downplayed the stylistic qualities put forward by United and Liverpool this term.

Klopp said:

"I know what people are saying—they play a specific kind of football, we play a specific kind of football and now everyone makes a big thing of it. But it's all about winning. There are different ways to win football games but we have another history in the last few years. In the last few years Manchester United was more successful than us. That's the truth, we respect that, but it doesn’t disturb the moment to be honest."

The Red Devils lead the Anfield giants by two points in the race for second, but United have played with a conservative edge compared to the swagger produced by Liverpool.

Klopp's men have scored 11 goals more than Mourinho's side in the Premier League this season, but United have been vastly superior in defence, which has been a trademark of the Special One at his various clubs.

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"If we have to defend there we have to defend with all we have, not with gambling and thinking we are flying," added Klopp. "Against Manchester United nobody flies. They are physically too strong, technically too strong."

A victory for the Reds will give Klopp the edge on the home stretch, but United will demand second spot after chasing Manchester City's tail since the start of the campaign.

Liverpool are certainly the more beautiful team to watch and admire, but United have proved time and again they can dig in to force a positive result.

United supporters remain concerned by the lack of entertainment produced by their side. However, the Stretford End will be overcome with joy if their team sneaks a pragmatic win in the north-west derby at Old Trafford.