Jurgen Klopp has backed the Premier League’s cancellation of games due to coronavirus.
The English top flight announced on Friday that all fixtures would be suspended until April 3 after several players and coaches were affected.
Arsenal manager Mikel Areta and Chelsea’s Callum Hudson-Odoi tested positive for the virus while players at several other clubs displayed symptoms.
They included three members of Leicester City’s first-team squad and an unnamed player at Everton, who were due to face Liverpool on Monday.
The Reds have voluntarily suspended all playing activities at their Melwood training base with players given individual training programmes to follow.
A planned charity match between the club’s Legends side and their Barcelona counterparts at Anfield on March 28 has also been subsequently postponed.
“Today, football and football matches really aren’t important at all,” said Klopp.
“Of course, we don’t want to play in front of an empty stadium and we don’t want games or competitions suspended.
“But if doing so helps one individual stay healthy – just one – we do it no questions asked.
“If it’s a choice between football and the good of the wider society, it’s no contest. Really, it isn’t.
“Today’s decision and announcement is being implemented with the motive of keeping people safe. Because of that we support it completely.
“We have seen members of teams we compete against become ill. This virus has shown that being involved in football offers no immunity.
“To our rival clubs and individuals who are affected and to those who later will become so, you are in our thoughts and prayers.
“None of us know in this moment what the final outcome will be.
“But as a team we have to have belief that the authorities make decisions based on sound judgement and morality.
“Yes, I am the manager of this team and club and therefore carry a leadership responsibility with regards to our future on the pitch.
“But I think in the present moment, with so many people around our city, the region, the country and the world facing anxiety and uncertainty, it would be entirely wrong to speak about anything other than advising people to follow expert advice and look after themselves and each other.
“The message from the team to our supporters is only about your well-being. Put your health first. Don’t take any risk.
“Think about the vulnerable in our society and act where possible with compassion for them. Please look after yourselves and look out for each other.”