Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp insists he always knew his players’ strength of character would ensure victory over Red Bull Salzburg – even after they squandered a 3-0 lead against the Austrians.

The Reds raced into a commanding lead with goals from Sadio Mane, Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salah inside 36 minutes but started to go backwards when Hee-Chan Hwang pulled one back just before half-time.

Takumi Minamino set nerves jangling 10 minutes after the break and when substitute Erling Braut Haaland scored his 18th of the season four minutes after coming on, it appeared the European champions’ homecoming would fall flat.

However, Salah took his tally to 12 in 13 Anfield Champions League appearances to secure a first victory in Group E.

Klopp insisted after the match that he wasn’t angry with his players for their lapse and later hailed them for the character they showed to ensure victory was earned.

“That we showed character, I would be the last one to be surprised by that,” said Klopp.

“That’s why I was not overly concerned at the moment of 3-3 because I knew we would have moments again.

“It would be silly if that were not possible because we did so many good things so we should not lose complete faith in ourselves in the moment when it becomes a bit difficult.

“It was far away from being a perfect game but it was a typical Liverpool game, very exciting. I thought after the game maybe I am angry but I realised I am not angry, so why should I show up as if I am angry?

“I respect the performance of the opponent and saw a lot of good things from us. We can do better. We will do better. That’s it.”

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