Jurgen Klopp has hailed Rafael Benitez ahead of his return to Liverpool tomorrow with Newcastle United.
Benitez retains a degree of fondness among the Reds’ fan base after leading the club to the Champions League will be in the away dugout at Anfield for the second time since leaving in 2010, after recently taking the reins at St James’ Park.
And Liverpool manager Klopp believes that the former Real Madrid boss’ visit should be embraced rather than treated as taboo.
He said: “He’s a very successful manager, nice person.
“Be louder than you have ever been – that’s absolutely okay. That’s how I would say hello to a good old friend.
“He still lives around here, nobody has to ignore this wonderful moment.
“If someone wants to celebrate Rafa’s achievements here tomorrow that’s absolutely okay. I’m fine with this. Do how you feel.
“I know him. I like Rafa. He’s a really successful manager and a nice person.”
Benitez’s arrival on Tyneside has coincided with an upturn, with the Magpies following up last weekend’s impressive 3-0 win over Swansea City up with a respectable 1-1 home draw against Champions League chasing Manchester City on Tuesday.
And Klopp is in no doubt as to what Benitez’s side will bring to tomorrow’s game, with the super-fit away team currently battling for Premier League survival.
He added: “You need to be fit in this game. There’s no doubt about it. You have seen this in the Man City game.
“Newcastle was really impressive, hot and greedy. They fight for the league – and we have to fight back.
“They have a strong team. They don’t look like a relegation team.
“Only one of them, Sunderland and Norwich can stay up.”