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Liverpool forgotten man returned from loan spell to say goodbye to Jürgen Klopp

(Photo by John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Jürgen Klopp is given a rousing reception by his Liverpool players and staff -Credit:(Photo by John Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)


Liverpool's players got the opportunity to thank Jürgen Klopp for his support as he bid farewell to Anfield on Sunday, with one forgotten figure also returning to show his gratitude.

Klopp's final match in charge of Liverpool ended in a 2-0 victory over Wolves as the German was serenaded throughout the match. He later addressed his adoring supporters in a powerful post-match speech, having been given a guard of honor by players and staff.

A host of players who didn't make the matchday squad were present, including departing duo Thiago Alcântara and Joël Matip, as well as several other younger stars.

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There was also a rare sighting of defender Nat Phillips, who has spent the second half of the campaign on loan at Championship side Cardiff. The 27-year-old has been with Liverpool since 2019 and featured heavily in the 2020/21 season as Klopp faced a defensive injury crisis.

Klopp later lauded Phillips for his role in helping Liverpool reach the Champions League final in the following campaign. He spent a season at Bournemouth and then moved to Celtic last summer but struggled to nail down a regular starting place.

Phillips has impressed at Cardiff though and has opened the door to a permanent switch this summer, with his contract having another two years to run.

"There's a lot of change going on at Liverpool, so there's a lot up in the air there," he told WalesOnline. "Liverpool has got a lot to sort out. I'd certainly consider a return to Cardiff. I've enjoyed my time here, I've enjoyed playing regularly.

"I want to continue playing regular football and enjoying my football. Any time you move clubs, a lot is up in the air. I've done it a few times with loans, so I would say I'm more accustomed to it than some people are.'

Liverpool.com says: Phillips was an exception in his attendance as Liverpool's other loan players didn't return to Anfield on Sunday. The defender clearly has a lot to thank Klopp for, having been handed his debut by the German. It appears his future probably lies elsewhere and it wouldn't be a surprise if he moved on permanently this summer.