Klopp demands ‘different level’ for City rematch | Jota fitness doubt

Jurgen Klopp says Liverpool were not at their best in their 2-2 draw at Manchester City last weekend and believes his side “can perform to a different level” when the two sides clash in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley on Saturday.

Liverpool were forced to come from behind twice in a thrilling 2-2 draw with City at the Etihad Stadium last Sunday that leaves the Premier League title race still on a knife-edge.

And having also drawn 2-2 with their Premier League rivals at Anfield earlier in the season, Klopp is aiming to go one better this weekend and secure a return to Wembley for the final.

When asked whether the two sides can surprise each other any more, Klopp said: “We think a lot about these games. We have to. City were really strong last week and we were not at our best.

“So, I’d like to see a game where we are at our best. It would be interesting so why don’t we give that a try? That would be nice, it could be a surprise if all of a sudden, we are good.

“The boys did a lot of good stuff in the game, but there were a couple of things and I know that we can perform to a different level.

Then it’s a cup game, a one off, and if it’s 2-2 again then it’s 120 minutes then it’s penalties, that would be really crazy to go all the way.”

Klopp: Good chance Jota will be fit to face City

Meanwhile, Klopp is confident Diogo Jota will be fit to face Manchester City at Wembley on Saturday.

The Portugal international came off with a knock just before the hour in Wednesday’s 3-3 Champions League draw with Benfica, however, Klopp believes the forward will be fine.

The German said:”Diogo pulled up slightly directly after the game.

“It’s Diogo: there’s a good chance he will be all right but we need to have a look tomorrow. That’s it.”

More to follow…