Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is known for his rambunctious, ‘heavy metal’ approach to football and life in general.
But the German seemed to fancy a change of pace during the international break as he visited his local bowling green in Formby to play a game of bowls with three elderly Liverpool fans for LFCTV.
The affable German teamed up with Liverpool fan Lesley for a game of bowls in Formby
Klopp’s first throw at the Holy Trinity bowling club did not bring much success
The 54-year-old could not implement his favoured gegenpressing style of play at the green
Klopp became aware of bowls as a teenager when he was on a school exchange in Luton
‘I got attracted to this game when I was 16 and had a school exchange in…. Luton. Two weeks in Luton.’ said Klopp. ‘I watched it during the Commonwealth games and thought ‘what the … is this?!’
Pleasantries aside, Eric quickly focused on the titanic clash in Formby and informed Klopp: ‘We’ve got the opponents lined up. They’re all Liverpool supporters and have a lot to say about your strategy.’
Klopp meekly replied: ‘I’m looking forward to it.’
When asked why he wanted to take up the sport by his bowling partner Lesley, he said: ‘I have something like a sports bucket list.’ When asked if he would try cricket next, the German replied: ‘That’s too complicated.’
Bowls may not sound like the most thrilling way to spend an afternoon off, but Klopp was happy to experience a change of scenery.
The 49-year-old said that he has little time for extra-curricular activities due to the demands of the Premier League but added that he was thankful to be working for a club like Liverpool.
‘I have not a lot to do with a life around (football). My car knows the way to the training ground and back, but yes it’s great.’ added Klopp.
‘I could not have imagined that I would have the opportunity to work for a club like Liverpool. I’m really thankful every day that I can do it.’
The former Mainz boss also feels able to call Formby home: ‘Yes, 100%. I would not have signed such a long contract if it was really difficult to live here. For a dog, it is paradise!’
Klopp was in a merry mood for the majority of his time at the Holy Trinity bowling club but one throw late in the day seemed to really get under his skin.
‘What’s the problem, where’s the curve? Where’s the curve?!’ cried Klopp as he and Leslie were comprehensively outplayed on the green by Peter and Adrian, who ran out comfortable winners.
