Froehlich: Klopp's behaviour towards officials is too aggressive

Nov 25, 2012 2:45:00 PM

The DFB head of referees criticises the Borussia Dortmund coach's vociferous conduct on the touchline and warns that it risks encouraging violence against officials

The German chief of referees Lutz-Michael Froehlich has condemned the behaviour of Borussia Dortmund boss Jurgen Klopp, accusing him of setting a bad example to others in the domestic game.

The former Fifa referee, speaking in an interview, was criticial of Klopp and his often emotional conduct on the sidelines.

"Although if Klopp always says 'sorry,' in the end something sticks," he told Deutschland Radio. "Sometimes his behaviour has such an aggressive potential that violent excesses may arise based on it."

However, die Schwarzgelben chief Hans-Joachim Watzke was quick to defend the 45-year-old former Mainz trainer, completely refuting the accusations.

"This is strong stuff and completely wrong in my eyes," he was quoted as saying by Bild.

"We're comparing apples and oranges here. Mr. Froehlich should recognise that we have led the [Bundesliga] Fairplay Table for years- and we are on top again this season.

"Our coach is primary responsible for that. Jurgen Klopp is dedicated and impulsive during the match, but not aggressive."