Jurgen Klopp 'almost called TalkSport' to complain about Gabby Agbonlahor

Jurgen Klopp has launched an extraordinary attack on the TalkSport pundit Gabriel Agbonlahor, claiming he almost rang the radio station to protest at his criticisms of Manchester United.

The former Aston Villa striker had been outspoken in his verdict on United's performance in their 4-0 defeat at Brentford last Saturday, describing them as "a shambles" and that manager Erik ten Hag should consider "just packing up".

Klopp, whose Liverpool side face United next Monday, took issue with Agbonlahor's comments and said he was in no position to accuse others of lacking mentality.

"It was not a nice week for United after Brentford," said Klopp. "We forget how good Brentford are. I watched the first half and then drove home and listened on the radio to TalkSport.

"Gabby Agbonlahor - he lost against us 6-0 [with Villa] in my first year and I couldn’t remember him as a mentality monster on the pitch but what he said about United on that show. I was close to calling in and telling him you forgot completely you have been a player.

"It was unbelievable [what he was saying] and if ex players are already going like this you can imagine where everything else is going."

Klopp insists last season's humiliation of United counts for nothing as the two arch-rivals prepare to meet again.

Liverpool won 5-0 at Old Trafford and 4-0 at home last term, but a new season and a new manager in Ten Hag presents a different challenge on Monday night, for all United's current struggles.

"When we had the two results last year I knew already it would not help for next year," said Klopp, who confirmed striker Roberto Firmino will be fit to start in the absence of the suspended Darwin Nunez, and that defender Joe Gomez is also fit.

"I could not be less interested in the results from last year - different games, different situations. It just helps United to be more motivated if possible.

"Of course, I would prefer to play them after they win 5-0 but it isn't dreamland, that's how it is. We drew twice too, so is it better to play us? I don't know.

"We have to deal with all the situations. The whole world will watch it, let's see how these heavyweights deal with the situation."