Jurgen Klopp has disputed Sadio Mane’s sending-off in Liverpool’s defeat to Manchester City.
The Reds slumped to their heaviest reversal under Klopp at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, losing Mane in the midst of their 5-0 hammering.
A key turning point in the game occurred when the Senegal winger was shown a straight red card for a late challenge on City goalkeeper Ederson.
But the Liverpool manager disagreed with referee Jon Moss’ decision to reduce his side to ten men with the controversial dismissal of Mane.
“Very unlucky. I think everyone knows he didn’t see the goalie,” said Klopp.
“There was not one second he looks on the goalie. He just wanted to get the ball as soon as possible. Hopefully the goalie is not seriously injured.
“[Sadio] is very, very upset. We couldn’t keep him. He was shocked about the situation. I am sure also about the decision.
“If the leg is not where it is, it is a foul from the goalie. In the end it was a red card I am sure enough people will find enough reasons to say it was the right decision.
“It had a big influence on the game. It was not a foul but it was a red card and you have to accept it. That changed the game and we know it.”
Klopp also admitted that Liverpool’s hammering did not concern him about his side’s long-term prospects.
He added: “We could’ve done better with the ball.
“Also in the second half a lot of things, you don’t lose 5-0 when a lot of things are right, but it’s not that I am concerned in the long term.
“If we lose too much confidence because of this game, we make a mistake.”