Kyle Walker issues defiant response to Jurgen Klopp's rant over Man City vs Liverpool kick-off time

Klopp has claimed that the decision to schedule Liverpool's clash with City as the early kick-off on Saturday after the international break is "just not possible". Walker is likely to play for England against North Macedonia on Monday, but he maintains that he has no concerns over when the game is played, and says his manager, Pep Guardiola, may even give his players a day off this week, despite the quick turnaround.

Liverpool had a dismal record in 12:30pm kick-offs last season, losing three and drawing three of the six games in the time slot. The Reds played City at the same time last season and lost 4-1, perhaps explaining Klopp's frustrations.

Walker said: "We're going to get back from Macedonia early on Tuesday morning, but I have a good manager who gives us a couple of days off before the weekend. It's a little tiring sometimes, but I wouldn't change my job for the world.

"Sports science has helped me massively. I do my gym work for my muscles and I'm still sharp."

It will be intriguing to see if Walker is involved against North Macedonia. The only Liverpool player in the squad is Trent Alexander-Arnold, who played in the 2-0 win over Malta on Friday.