Jurgen Klopp has apologised to Brighton manager Chris Hughton for what he calls “a misunderstanding” on Saturday afternoon.
Hughton was visibly upset with the Liverpool boss in the moments immediately after the Reds’ 5-1 victory over the Seagulls at the Amex Stadium but the reason behind the tense exchange on the touchline was never known for sure as neither manager was asked about the incident in their post-match press conferences.
Match of the Day pundit Ian Wright surmised that managers had grown tired of Klopp’s insistence on passionately celebrating every goal, regardless of the scoreline, while former Spurs forward Garth Crooks tore into the German’s behaviour in his weekly column.
On Tuesday, Klopp took centre-stage at a press conference ahead of his side’s final Champions League group game at home to Spartak Moscow and he seized the opportunity to issue an apology to Hughton.
“It was a misunderstanding,” Klopp said. “I have to apologise.
“I didn’t do something wrong on purpose. I wanted to shake Chris’ hand and then Mo Salah crossed my way and I gave him a hug.
“It wasn’t on purpose. I think and hope that everything is fine.”
Hughton certainly didn’t seem to be holding any grudges against Klopp as he showered praise on Liverpool in the aftermath of the game, proclaiming them potential title contenders.
“Liverpool are certainly good enough,” Hughton said.
“Manchester City are extraordinary at the moment in terms of the results they are getting and the way they are playing. But we all know in this game that what is now can be different in a month or two months’ time if they pick up injuries.
“Can Liverpool continue to push? They certainly have the quality to do so.”
