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Topics: Liverpool, Premier League, Jurgen Klopp, Transfers, Jude Bellingham
Ryan Smart
Topics: Liverpool, Premier League, Jurgen Klopp, Transfers, Jude Bellingham
West Ham star Michail Antonio has slammed claims that Jurgen Klopp's future as Liverpool boss should be called into question.
Liverpool have struggled this season in comparison to recent campaigns, and are not in a position to challenge for the Premier League title.
They are also currently 10 points off the top four places, having lost each of their last two league games.
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The Reds' midfield and defence have both come into question amid calls for the club to spend money on improving both areas in the January transfer window.
Midfield has been a key point of criticism in recent months, with the Reds making only one permanent signing - Thiago Alcantara - in that area in the past four-and-a-half years.
But Klopp has suggested that it is difficult for Liverpool to do any more January business following the signing of Cody Gakpo, which may partially be due to rules surrounding Champions League squad registrations.
The German retains the backing of almost the full contingent of fans to take the Reds forward, particularly given his incredible success at Anfield - and Antonio was shocked to be told that one supporter called into BBC Radio 5 Live to call for Klopp to be sacked.
Speaking on his podcast, The Footballer's Football Podcast (via Liverpool Echo), the West Ham striker said: "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. At the end of the day, so many managers have been there and they haven't done it."
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Antonio also gave his thoughts on the future of Jude Bellingham, with the Reds holding a long-term interest in bringing the 19-year-old Borussia Dortmund midfielder to Anfield. However, he did quickly change his mind on the subject.
"If I was in his shoes, he has the pick of everyone, I would be going to Spain," he began.
"The Premier League is the best league in the world, but the opportunity to play for Real Madrid or Barcelona, those teams are something else. Everyone dreams to play for them."
He then said: "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."