Jurgen Klopp: Liverpool manager calls Carabao Cup the 'most special trophy' he has won

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp called the Carabao Cup final victory over Chelsea the “most special trophy” he had ever won.

This gave the Anfield side a record-extending 10th EFL Cup win in Klopp's final season at the club.

“This is definitely the most special trophy in my 20 years,” said Klopp.

“I couldn't care less about my legacy. I didn't come here to create a legacy. This was something very special.”

Liverpool were without several key players through injury, including forwards Mohamed Salah, Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez.

In other words, five players under the age of 20 participated, and the average age of the team that finished the match was under 22.

Klopp told Sky Sports: “What happened here was absolutely insane. This can't happen.”

“We have a team, squad and academy full of character and I’m so proud to be a part of it tonight.

“The craziest thing is we deserved it. We had our lucky moments, they had their lucky moments. The boys showed up. Really cool was.”

Dutch defender Van Dijk said he was “very proud” to be a Liverpool player after scoring a late win.

“It's all about the fans so let's enjoy it,” Van Dijk told Sky Sports.

“It was a tough game for both teams. They had chances, we had chances. It's great. It's my first trophy as Liverpool captain.

“Despite all the problems before the game, we did our job.

“I am very proud to be part of this club and especially proud of the players.

“I can't talk about it right away, but I hope we can get a few more wins.” [trophies this season]. ”

While Klopp and his players celebrate the victory, all eyes will soon turn to Wednesday's FA Cup fifth-round tie against Championship promotion-chasing Southampton.

In addition to the attacking trio of Salah, Jota and Nunez, goalkeeper Alisson, defenders Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joel Matip, and midfielders Dominik Shovsolai, Curtis Jones and Thiago Alcantara will also miss Sunday's final due to injury. did.

Midfielder Ryan Gravenbirch was forced off in the first half with what Klopp said was an ankle ligament injury, while Wataru Endo was seen leaving Wembley on crutches with his foot in a protective boot.

Klopp added: “At the moment we don't have a squad for Wednesday. The players who played will probably be able to play again. The rest will receive treatment on Monday.”

“I love this country with all my heart, but the schedule is not set to win a lot. You'll see the price you have to pay, but we'll fight for everything and then You'll see what happens.

“For some reason, there will be a team wearing Liverpool kits against Southampton.”

Klopp said referee Chris Kavanagh's performance was not suitable for a cup final after Moises Caicedo's dissent against Gravenwerch saw the Dutch midfielder leave the pitch on a stretcher. .

“The two teams were fighting hard, but the referees were not up to the level of the game,” he said.

“Wasn't that even a foul? Then the fourth official explained that he couldn't give a card…Good idea. This situation was clear to me. I had everything I needed for a card. Masu.”

These injuries have meant that 20-year-olds Harvey Elliott and Conor Bradley have started and the under-20 trio of Bobby Clarke, Jayden Dans and James McConnell have come off the bench, leaving young players in the mix. An opportunity arose to participate.

“I'm sure we brought all the kids. We needed fresh legs. They were fresh, very young, but they did the job,” Klopp added. .

“They've been training with us for a long time so they know exactly what we have to do. To be honest, they're a pain, that's what you do at this moment. It has to be done.”

Liverpool goalkeeper Caouhin Kelleher told Sky Sports.: “This is the moment you dream of. It's better for your heart than a penalty. I'm very happy to have another great moment for me.”

“We're not going to get ahead of ourselves, but this is great for momentum. We're in a good position now.”

Liverpool right-back Conor Bradley told Sky Sports.: “he [Klopp] He's a really special coach. I now want to enjoy every moment with him and win everything I can for him.

“I don't think words can describe it. I've been supporting this club since I was about five years old, so to win the trophy with them at Wembley was really special.”

Liverpool teenager Bobby Clarke came on as a substitute in the 72nd minute.: “When he called my name and said I would continue, it was an incredible feeling. Klopp gives you confidence, gives you freedom, really lets you do what you want.” Masu.”