Lovren thanks Klopp for Reds revival

Dejan Lovren has credited Jurgen Klopp for the turnaround in his fortunes at Liverpool as the Croatian centre-back continues to impress at Anfield.

A big-money signing from Southampton in 2014, Lovren struggled to adapt to life at the Reds initially under Brendan Rodgers.

He admits that he was unable to recreate his Saints form at first, but believes that since Klopp’s arrival at the club the following year, he is getting back to his best.

“When I came I was in good form. I was really mentally strong. For the first three or four games I had confidence,” he said.

“It wasn’t about performing better. I was just searching for my form in the beginning of the season – from Southampton to here. It took time.

“You can’t do it alone when the whole team is not doing well, it’s really difficult. Then when you make mistakes, everyone is on you.

“That was an unlucky time for me. People expect straight away when you pay so much for a player. But it’s in the small details. All the small things are a big part on the pitch to have a good result at the end.

(Kieran Galvin/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

“When Jürgen [Klopp] came, it changed everything. I had my confidence. I’m still growing better and better with him. I can be a better player.

“I understand the fans and I hope they understand me now and how the situation was,” he added.

“The most important thing is that these kinds of players, who are really strong mentally, will never stop fighting.

“You need to be mentally strong if you want to compete. Every three or four days, there are big games and a lot of stress. You need to be ready to work hard. Nothing comes easy in life.

“But we never stop believing in ourselves and that’s the reason why we are still here and have positive comments about us. That’s what drives us for the future.”