Dietmar Hamann claims he "didn't really understand" why Jurgen Klopp took issue with his comments on Liverpool's predicament.
The Reds boss was quizzed on comments made by the German - who previously played at Anfield, helping them win the Champions League in 2005 - and reacted angrily. It came before Liverpool hit seven past Rangers to all but ensure they will qualify for the knockout stages in Europe.
The positive result came despite Liverpool struggling for form as they continue to cop criticism. They are already 14 points off the pace in the Premier League, having won just two of their eight games so far. They look a shadow of the team who had hopes of landing the quadruple last term, and Hamann believes Klopp needs to respect outside opinions.
He told Sky Sport Germany : "It's about the matter for me - It's obvious that there are problems in Liverpool at the moment. Klopp may see it differently and if he thinks I’m talking nonsense, then he should say so. I have no problem with that at all, you have to respect other opinions – and that’s why I didn't really understand what he said yesterday [Tuesday]."
Klopp, who has history when it comes to biting back at reporters in press conferences, responded to a question earlier this week that referenced Hamman's opinion with: "Oh great. A fantastic source, well respected everywhere."
His compatriot had hailed the efforts of his former side last season after they claimed two domestic cups and came second in the Champions League and Premier League. There has been a drop-off this term amid several key personnel changes on Merseyside.
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Hamman previously claimed: "This Liverpool team looks tired, they look pedestrian and they just look flat. I’m not sure where the spark is going to come from because they’ve won games in the past. They beat Rangers a few days ago [at Anfield] but they’re obviously far superior to Rangers.
"I trust that they’ll know where the spark is going to come from but whether it’s the end of an era? I wouldn’t write them off, but my imagination doesn’t let me see where the spark is going to come from in the next few weeks."
Such comments clearly didn't sit well with Klopp, who was always going to defend his side despite their underwhelming form. Manchester City are next up for Liverpool and their manger said after Wednesday's win: "It’s a freak result and we all know that and we don’t make more of it than we should, but obviously it is the best we could have asked for and that is why I am pretty pleased."
