Former Liverpool striker: "Klopp is unique, but Xabi Alonso would be a fantastic replacement"

Borussia Dortmund global ambasador and former Liverpool striker Karl-Heinz Riedle claims that Xabi Alonso would be a perfect replacement for Jurgen Klopp.

In Riedle's words, the Spaniard is doing an incredible job with Bayer Leverkusen, and would be a superb fit for the Anfield dugout after Klopp's departure.

"I've never seen Leverkusen play like they are doing at the moment. He deserves a lot of credit. He's changed the whole team around and made some very good signings."

Would his style of football be a good fit for Liverpool?

"It fits completely," Riedle told The Athletic, before adding: "I'd say Jurgen’s football is slightly different, but Xabi likes to attack, too. If you see them pressing in the opposition half, it's really impressive.

"He has the eye, he has the desire, he knows Liverpool as a club and as a city. He's a legend here - everyone knows and respects him. I don't know what his plan is or what Liverpool will decide to do, but I think he would be a fantastic choice."

Riedle has also seen first-hand just how challenging it is to replace someone of Klopp's stature.

"We're on our sixth coach since Jurgen left. Dortmund fans still love him. He's the best ever in the club's history. Watch the videos when he said his goodbyes, in 2015. It was maybe one of the most emotional exits from a coach ever. There were a lot of tears - 80,000 people crying. I'm sure it will be the same here. He has a secret when it comes to connecting with people. He knows how to get people together.

"He's won nearly all the titles there are to win and it's also the fact that his team play spectacular football. You're not going to find a double of Jurgen. It's not easy, but Liverpool have time and I pray that they find the right decision."

ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE - MATCHDAY 24

Saturday

15.30: (1.22) Man.City (6.50) Everton (12.0)

18.00: (1.80) Luton (3.70) Sheffield Utd (5.00)

18.00: (1.17) Liverpool (8.00) Burnley (14.0)

18:00: (2.45) Fulham (3.50) Bournemouth (3.00)

18:00: (2.10) Wolverhampton (3.45) Brentford (3.50)

18.00: (1.85) Tottenham (4.20) Brighton (3.90)

20.30: (3.60) Nott.Forest (3.60) Newcastle (2.15)

Sunday

17.00: (6.25) West Ham (4.10) Arsenal (1.60)

19.30: (2.20) Aston Villa (3.60) Man.Utd. (3.40)

Monday

23.00: (4.40) Crystal Palace (3.50) Chelsea (1.85)

***odds are subject to change