West Ham striker Michail Antonio has labelled calls for Jurgen Klopp to leave Liverpool as 'ludicrous', insisting the German remains the right man for the job.
The Reds got back on track yesterday evening courtesy of an FA Cup win at Wolves, though many supporters were not overly optimistic of securing progression to the fourth round due to recent results. Beaten badly at both Brentford and Brighton, defeat at the latter has left Klopp's side in a precarious position for Champions League qualification.
Some have suggested the Reds' struggles this campaign offer evidence this group of players are reaching the end of a cycle, others have pointed the finger in the direction of the Liverpool boss for his loyalty to certain players while questioning whether he can summon the spirit to inspire another period of success.
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Responding to the speculation regarding Klopp's position, Antonio was left in disbelief that individuals would want to see the former Borussia Dortmund boss depart. "Wow, that is ridiculous! You can’t. That’s ludicrous. Getting rid of him would just be stupidity. He won the Premier League with Liverpool," he told The Footballer’s Football Podcast. "At the end of the day, so many managers have been there and they haven’t done it.”
Klopp recently admitted he will stay at the club unless told to leave and is under no illusions a rebuilding project will need to take place this summer. Jude Bellingham is a main midfield target for the Reds, and Antonio believes Liverpool's poor campaign will not deter the England international from signing.
"If I was in his shoes, he has the pick of everyone, I would be going to Spain," explained the Hammers' forward. "The Premier League is the best league in the world, but the opportunity to play for Real Madrid and Barcelona... those teams are something else. Everyone dreams to play for them."
Performing a U-turn on this topic, Antonio added: "I've changed my mind, I think he should come to the Premier League. If he comes to Liverpool, they have managed to keep Salah and will rebuild. I wouldn't turn down Liverpool just because they're having a bad season."
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