Jurgen Klopp Reveals Why He Substituted Xherdan Shaqiri At Half-Time
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Xherdan Shaqiri's first Liverpool start lasted just 45 minutes, and Jurgen Klopp has revealed why he substituted the Swiss international.
The diminutive midfielder made his first start for Liverpool in the Premier League against Southampton.
Despite creating Mohamed Salah's goal, Shaqiri was dragged off at the break.
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Liverpool led Southampton 3-nil at half-time thanks to goals from Salah, Joel Matip and an own goal from Wesley Hoedt.
But Klopp switched his side up for the second half by replacing Shaqiri with James Milner.
He didn't appear to be injured. It was just Klopp making a tactical change.
Better news is Shaqiri not injured, just tactical from Klopp, who wanted more control in midfield 3, especially out wide defensively. Means he can now play Wednesday. #LFC
- David Maddock (@MaddockMirror) September 22, 2018
Klopp confirms Shaqiri was a tactical change: "He is not injured, I just wanted to control the game more." #LFC
- David Maddock (@MaddockMirror) September 22, 2018
Even though he played one half of football, Shaqiri got fans talking following his performance at Anfield.
Xherdan Shaqiri's full debut for Liverpool vs Southampton:
- LFC Stats (@LFCData) September 22, 2018
77% passing
17/22 passes
1 key pass
2 shots
Forced the own goal
Hit the woodwork
Directly involved in 2 goals :ok_hand: pic.twitter.com/vyLAo2YsNC
Xherdan Shaqiri has shown today that he could be the cause of future headaches for Jürgen Klopp after a very impressive display in an already stacked midfield.
- Matt (@FalseFirmino) September 22, 2018
Xherdan Shaqiri - 9/10
- LFC Player Ratings (@PlayerLfc) September 22, 2018
I know he has played only 45 minutes, but oh my god how suitable he is to the system. Absolute bulldog. And also, what a free kick was it really.
Having Xherdan Shaqiri to come into the XI is quite the upgrade on some of the dross we've had on the bench in recent years. Great 45 minutes for him.
- Ben Wells (@FRfotballBen) September 22, 2018
Xherdan Shaqiri was absolutely superb today. He showed not only his undeniable talent, but also a great level of versatility to his game. He flourished in the number ten position whilst also drifting wide on numerous occasion. On a side note, another clean sheet too.
- Matt (@FalseFirmino) September 22, 2018
Will the 26-year-old get much game time this season?
Let us know what you think in the comment section below.
Topics: Liverpool, Football News, Football, Premier League, Xherdan Shaqiri
