Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino, in recent news, have been involved in what can be described as a reverse psychology technique ahead of their Carabao Cup final clash this weekend.
Klopp, in an interview with BBC Sports, claimed his side are not favourites going into the cup final.
Jurgen Klopp believes Liverpool are not favourites
“Will we be big favourites? Definitely not.
“Since we played them (Chelsea) they have improved a lot and it will be tricky, this was exceptional tonight.”, he said.
However, the Chelsea boss, who has a contrary opinion on the situation, believes the Reds have a higher advantage, taking into consideration their experience playing in the finals.
Pochettino responds to Klopp
In response to Klopp’s claims, he said, “Of course, I think Liverpool are the favourites,” Pochettino said on Friday. “In the last few years, they have experience of competing as a team and being in finals.
“Our players are not only new to this competition, Premier League and Carabao Cup but for some, this is their first final. In my opinion, I make them favourites.
“But he is clever enough to say, ‘no, it is 50/50’. Yes, for sure [they are favourites]. It is always like this.”, as per One Football.
Pochettino acknowledged that although Liverpool are favourites, he is positive about his side’s chances, having seen the Blues record wins at Aston Villa and Crystal Palace before an impressive away display at Manchester City, which earned them a draw.
Meanwhile, Chelsea defender Levi Colwill believes his team has a very strong shot at the trophy, stating, “We want to show we’re winners, that we can lift trophies for Chelsea.”
Only one outright win has been recorded in the last six meetings between these two clubs, including two goaless draws in their last two cup final clashes, with the only win coming in their last clash at Anfield in the English Premier League, which ended 4-1 in favour of Liverpool.
