Xabi Alonso has backed Jurgen Klopp to bring back the “glory days” to his former club Liverpool.
Alonso admits to being a big fan of the German and believes the club will prosper under a manager who understands the hunger of the club’s fans.
Former Borussia Dortmond boss Klopp replaced Brendan Rodgers in October 2014 and in his first full season at Anfield has lost just three times in 26 matches.
“I respect him a lot for the way he has embraced the Liverpool culture - from the start he seemed to understand just what the job meant,” Bayern Munich midfielder Alonso told Fox Latin America.
“He understands the hunger the fans have, but also he conducts himself with style and dignity.
“The Premier League has never been more competitive - but I really think the glory days of Liverpool Football Club could be very close again.”
Klopp takes his side to Old Trafford on Sunday and Alonso feels victory over their bitter-rivals can give the Reds the belief required to win their first league title in 27 years.
“Nothing means more to the fans than beating Manchester United,” added Alonso, who won the Champions League and FA Cup during five seasons at Anfield.
“During my time at the club we didn’t have much success at Old Trafford but a win there would not only mean everything to the fans, but give Liverpool the real belief they have what it takes to win the title this season.”