So the German is adamant that he hasn't been dealing in any psychological warfare before Sunday's huge top-of-the-table Premier League clash between his champions and Manchester United.

Following the 1-0 defeat at Southampton 12 days ago, the Reds boss flagged up the disproportionate number of penalties United were winning compared to his own side.

His comments have for two weeks since been analysed and interpreted - by the likes of former top referee Mark Clattenburg - but Klopp is adamant he wasn't trying to seek a psychological advantage.

"When people like Mr Clattenburg speak now, it says much more about them than it does about me. I have no skills for playing mind games, that is my problem," he said.

"Am I surprised someone is talking about what I have said? Clattenburg? No. It's nice we can talk about him. I am not Sir Alex for different reasons."

United striker Marcus Rashford revealed on Friday that when Jose Mourinho was manager at Old Trafford he told the England international he had to be more "savvy" in winning spot-kicks.

So has Klopp ever told his players similar?

"I one hundred per cent never mention something like that. It has never happened," he said.

Klopp will make a late decision on whether centre-back Joel Matip, who has missed the last three matches with a groin problem, will return on Sunday.

"Joel is close. Does it make sense now to throw him in with just one or two sessions he didn't do yet?" he said.

"We have to see if he can train tomorrow with the team. I haven't decided yet."

United are currently three points ahead of second-placed Liverpool at the top of the Premier League.

Australian Associated Press