Former Liverpool star Didi Hamann admits ‘he could have done without the criticism’ from Jurgen Klopp after pair fell out last season

• Jurgen Klopp’s side came fifth last season and are playing in the Europa League
• Klopp had a falling out with 2005 Champions League winner Dietmar Hamann
• What’s Brendan Rodgers doing in the Scottish wilderness? It’s All Coming Up

Former Liverpool star turned TV pundit Dietmar Hamann has admitted he ‘could have done without criticism’ from Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp after the pair had a fall out last season. 

Klopp’s Liverpool endured a frustrating 22-23 campaign, finishing outside the Champions League qualification spots in fifth – four points away from Newcastle in fourth.

He faced pressure during some difficult periods throughout the season, particularly from some of Liverpool’s former players. 

One of these players was 2005 Champions League winner Hamann, who suggested that pressure was building on Klopp as his side lacked ‘spark’. 

This was in response to the Reds 3-2 loss to Arsenal in October that saw them fall as far as 14 points behind the Gunners who sat top of the league at that point, before letting their lead fall away and eventually finishing behind Manchester City. 

Liverpool legend Dietmar Hamann criticised Klopp’s side last year during a difficult spell

Klopp struck back in a spiky press conference, questioning Hamann’s credentials as a pundit

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Klopp reacted to Hamann’s words in a spiky press conference, questioning the former Germany midfielder’s credentials as a pundit. 

When Klopp was asked about a comment made by Hamann, he replied: ‘Who said that? Oh great! A fantastic source, well respected everywhere.’

He added. ‘Hamann played for Liverpool [but] that does not give you the right to say what you want especially when you have no idea. I actually think Didi Hamann does not deserve that you use his phrase to ask a question.’ 

The clash was brought up again during a recent interview Hamann did with NZZ, with the Liverpool legend insisting nothing was personal between him and Klopp. 

Hamann said: ‘I could have done without him saying I was a fantastic source and had no idea anyway.

‘The coaches are under a lot of pressure, and it is normal for them to defend themselves, the players and the club.

‘For me, it’s always about the cause, never about anything personal.’ 

Looking back on the spat Hamann did previously say that it was all ‘done and dusted.’ 

Hamann played for Liverpool in their iconic Champions League final win in 2005 vs AC Milan

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