Leitner Hails Klopp’s Influence Ahead Of Anfield Clash

Norwich’s Moritz Leitner says Jurgen Klopp was an important figure in his career and he can’t wait to play against his Liverpool side. The Canaries kick off the Premier League action on their return to the top flight with a trip to Anfield to face last season’s runners-up, which has got everybody in Norfolk excited.

“To start in the Premier League at Anfield is of course a great idea,” Leitner told SPORT1. “After all, we are playing against the reigning champions of the Champions League, that’s all there is to it.”

The clash will see the former Dortmund player come up against his old coach Klopp, under whom he won the German double in 2012. “He was a very important influence on my career,” said the 26-year-old.

“He’s a great guy and an outstanding coach, it was extremely valuable for me to see him as a young player, and I’ve made my first Champions League appearance under him, I’ll never forget that.” Leitner, whose goal sealed Norwich City’s 2-1 pre-season friendly win over Schalke at the Frimo Stadion last month, is eager to impress his current manager Daniel Farke.

“I’m fit again and full throttle, and my goal is to provide our coach with very good arguments every week to take me into account,” he added. “I always want to help the team to the maximum, and I can do that best on the pitch.”