Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp admits he is NOT surprised by one-match ban

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has admitted he expected to be punished for his outburst at referee Paul Tierney. 

Klopp was given a two-match suspension and fined £75,000 for comments about  Tierney that were deemed improper conduct. 

The 55-year-old says he’s not surprised by the outcome but will have a conversation with the FA again if the money from his fine is not used on a ‘good cause’. 

‘I expected a punishment. I would like to know where the money goes, I’d be happy to pay it if it goes to a good cause. If the FA keeps it then we have to talk again,’ Klopp said ahead of the visit of Aston Villa. 

‘Nobody will shout like me at them not tracking back. I’ll sit far away but if the game is not good I could make it happen anyway as my voice is all right! I’ll be in contact with Vitor (Matos) so we can talk about everything’

Jurgen Klopp has been handed a touchline ban for his comments about referee Paul Tierney

Asked if he will be involved in the farewells at the end of the match, the German replies: Nobody has told me I can’t go on the pitch after the game tomorrow.’

Klopp was charged by the Football Association following a 4-3 win over Tottenham on April 30. The German pulled his hamstring when running to celebrate close to fourth official John Brooks, having been incensed about an earlier decision that Tierney had made.

Brooks, according to the written reasons into the case that FA released on Thursday, advised Tierney that Klopp’s behaviour warranted a yellow card; Tierney indicated he would have been prepared to give him a red had he seen the incident.

In subsequent television interviews, Klopp’s tone left the PGMOL, the body responsible for refereeing games in English professional football, concerned that Tierney’s integrity had been called into question.

In a letter submitted to the FA as part of his defence, Klopp (left) expressed deep regret. He said: ‘I am sorry for my reaction in that immediate moment when I ran towards the fourth official, Mr Brooks and I fully accepted a caution was justified. I accepted that then and I accept now that a yellow card was correct. 

‘Equally I am sorry for some of the tone and content of my post-match interview. ‘Although it was not my intention I accept now it appears that I was questioning Mr Tierney’s integrity. I take ownership. On reflection, the words I used were inappropriate. Both of these incidents were driven by emotion.’