Jürgen Klopp praised Luis Díaz’s resilience as he awaits news on the status of his father who was kidnapped, after the Colombian player’s last-minute goal saved Liverpool from embarrassment against Luton.
Tahith Chong, a substitute player, scored a goal that seemed to secure Luton’s first home victory in the Premier League. However, in the fifth minute of stoppage time, Díaz scored a header off a cross from Harvey Elliott, resulting in a tie. This was a difficult week for the 26-year-old, as his father had been kidnapped by the National Liberation Army (ELN) and had still not been released. When he scored, Díaz revealed a T-shirt with the words “Libertad Para Papa” (Freedom for Dad).
Klopp expressed his happiness at having the player back in the Liverpool squad, following his exclusion from the win against Nottingham Forest last week. However, he emphasized that they are still eagerly awaiting news on Luis Manuel Díaz’s status.
According to the Liverpool manager, it was a fantastic moment that didn’t require any words. The outlook in Colombia is positive, but the one thing everyone is hoping for has yet to occur. We are patiently waiting for that moment.
Díaz issued a statement on Sunday evening, urging the ELN to promptly release his father. He also called upon international organizations to take action and secure his father’s freedom.
We are increasingly concerned every second and every minute. We cannot find the words to express the terrible emotions our family is experiencing, and this will continue until he returns home.
“I implore you to release my father immediately, while honoring his dignity. I would like to express my gratitude to all Colombians and the global community for your backing.”
Klopp, who said he did not hear a section of home fans apparently mocking the Hillsborough disaster, was disappointed his side failed to record a league victory here for a fifth successive match in a run that stretches back to 1987 but was complimentary about Luton’s battling display.
The speaker expressed mixed emotions, stating that although their team should have emerged victorious, they also had the potential to lose. They acknowledged Luton’s strong performance and identified a lack of composure during crucial moments as a contributing factor. Had they capitalized on their opportunities earlier on, the outcome may have been less tense for them.
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Luton’s draw moves them out of the relegation zone, surpassing Bournemouth on goal difference. This was their second point earned this season.
The manager, Rob Edwards, expressed that he felt proud rather than disappointed. He acknowledged that the players gave their all, but ultimately Liverpool managed to secure a win. While the team recognizes the need for more points, they are proud to have competed against some of the top teams in the league. Despite the starting team only costing £4m, earning a point against Liverpool is a remarkable accomplishment.
Source: theguardian.com
