9 months ago
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Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is surprised Arsenal loaned Albert Sambi Lokonga to Luton.
The Reds boss was previewing his team's upcoming Premier League clash with the Hatters - who continue to turn heads in the top-flight.
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Rob Edwards' men scared another giant on Sunday when Manchester United were forced to grind out a 2-1 win at Kenilworth Road.
Much of their success has centred around midfielders Lokonga and Ross Barkley, with the former arriving on-loan from Arsenal in the summer.
Speaking about the threat Luton will pose on Wednesday, Klopp said: "Lokonga, when you see him you think, 'He's an Arsenal player and they loaned him? Interesting.'"
The German manager also admitted he is enjoying the resurgence of ex-Everton and Chelsea star Barkley.
"Set-pieces are a strength [of Luton] but I have to say the way they play, they play incredible but even in games they lost they were in it. We experienced a tough game there and now in possession they found a structure where everyone is comfortable. Ross Barkley is a nice story where he is back to his best, or better," Klopp added.
"A deeper role, disciplined and extremely strong."
He added: "They are a really together [squad]. The situation at Bournemouth when the captain (Tom Lockyer collapsed) brought them closer and made them think some things are worse in life than maybe getting relegated.
"In general, they deserve respect. We have to show that with a proper Liverpool performance. Everyone who enters the gate to Anfield has be on their toes."
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Barkley's recent performances have certainly put him in the spotlight for an England call.
This summer will mark ten years since Barkley was awarded a place in the Three Lions World Cup squad for the 2014 tournament in Brazil.
Andros Townsend praises the impact of Ross Barkley at Luton Town this season after impressive displays against Arsenal and Manchester City
He continues to be mentioned as a potential option for Gareth Southgate, whose side has one more international break in March before the European Championships in Germany.
Barkley is widely known for his time with Liverpool's city rivals, Everton, where he made 179 appearances, scoring 21 goals.
He later joined Chelsea for a cut-price £15million and netted just 12 goals in 100 appearances.
During his time at Stamford Bridge, he was shipped out on loan to Aston Villa, where he scored three goals in 24 appearances.
After a short stint in Ligue 1 with Nice, he has now found his feet once again with Luton, and his impressive performances are even suggesting an England recall could be on the cards.
The midfielder has three goals and three assists so far this campaign, making 23 appearances to date.
