Jürgen Klopp has conceded that Liverpool face a battle to secure a top-four finish in the Premier League after the champions were held to a goalless draw by Manchester United at Anfield. The result marked Liverpool's third successive league match without a goal, leaving them with work to do if they are to defend their title.
The front three of Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mané struggled to break down a resilient United defence, while Alisson made two fine saves to deny Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba. United could have snatched victory late on, but the stalemate leaves Liverpool in fourth place.
Speaking after the match, Klopp said: 'I have to qualify for the Champions League and I know how difficult that is. This season will be a tough race for the top four, that is for sure.' He added: 'There is nothing fundamentally different, it is just the result is different. We will create chances and we will score.'
Liverpool have dropped points against West Brom, Newcastle and Southampton since their 7-0 win over Crystal Palace in December. They now face Burnley, Tottenham and West Ham in the league, as well as an FA Cup tie at Old Trafford.
United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjær expressed disappointment with his side's performance, telling Sky Sports: 'We can play better than this. It’s only a good result if we win the next game.'
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson criticised referee Paul Tierney for blowing his whistle early for half-time when Mané was through on goal, calling it 'strange, very strange'.
