Liverpool news: Jurgen Klopp defends Alberto Moreno after left-back is criticised for Arsenal performance

The Liverpool left-back was subject to intense criticism on social media after conceding a penalty and gifting Theo Walcott possesion for Arsenal's first goal

Jurgen Klopp was speaking ahead of Liverpool's weekend match against Burnley (Getty)

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has defended Alberto Moreno after the player was subject to intense criticism following his performance in the Reds’ 4-3 victory against Arsenal.

The former Sevilla player conceded a first-half penalty after bringing down Arsenal’s Theo Walcott in the box and was caught out in position shortly afterwards for Walcott’s opening goal at the Emirates.

Moreno was widely criticised on social media as the likes of Gary Neville, Gary Lineker and Rio Ferdninand took to Twitter to voice their opinions.

Neville tweeted that “When you start Moreno, it’s like you’re already a goal down”, while Lineker labelled the Spaniard a “liability”.

But speaking at Melwood training ground ahead of Liverpool’s weekend clash against Burnley, Klopp took the opportunity to defend his left-back.

“I can’t be interested in criticism,” he said. “Alberto played for a reason. Is the world not satisfied with our left-back?

“In my opinion, we could have avoided this situation and yes Alberto could have done better, that’s right. But I don’t understand what we are talking about.

“We are talking about Alberto Moreno because he didn’t defend so well against Arsenal? I don’t understand the conversation, maybe I should read more newspapers.”

The German added: “I’m sorry people aren’t happy with Alberto Moreno.”

Nonetheless, Moreno’s poor performance will have reminded Klopp that his side is desperately short of defensive cover in the left-back position.

He admitted that: “We know that if Alberto is injured we do not have a clear left-back but we have other options.”

Klopp stated that both James Milner and Nathaniel Clyne can provide suitable cover. “Milly (Milner) can play and everybody can say the Barcelona game (pre-season friendly) showed he can do it,” he said. “Clyney (Nathanial Clyne) played it before [too].”

On a positive note, Klopp suggested that Sadio Mane will not be out for as long as initially thought after the new signing picked up a shoulder injury in training.

“It was a challenge between two players in the air and Sadio fell on his shoulder. It’s not that serious.

“At this stage I don’t know if he will be available for the weekend but I don’t think he will be out for a long time.”