NewsJürgen Klopp enthrals thousands of fans at Anfield Road Stand test event

Klopp was the headline act at a free Anfield Road Stand test event on Monday, which is an important part of the phased opening of the new stand, which will ultimately see capacity at Anfield rise from 54,000 to more than 61,000.

The boss had put the first spade in the ground when construction work on the project began in September 2021, and was visibly excited about seeing fans in the brand-new upper tier for the first time.

When asked what he thought of the new stand, Klopp said: “I love it, it’s unbelievable. When it started, I couldn’t imagine how it would look.

“Seeing it now, I’m really touched and a little bit emotional. I’m not sure if everybody realises this is an historical moment and I’m proud to be here tonight.

“We are the first people to use this wonderful venue. I know you can’t see it from this side, but let me tell you it’s outstanding. What a beautiful new stand. I can’t wait for us to use it.”

The manager signed off the event with his signature celebration of three fist pumps to the delight of the 7,000-strong crowd.

The event started with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for pupils from the Premier League Primary Stars programme to take part in a community play-on-pitch with LFC Foundation – each of them unaware Klopp was watching from the sideline. They were thrilled to have a photo with the manager after their session.

The aim of the evening was to test the building, systems and management plans, with supporters being asked to cooperate in some important tests. These tests included staying for the full duration of the event, using the welfare facilities, testing entry and exit procedures, and there was a fire alarm evacuation at the end of the event.

The club expects to hear from Liverpool City Council’s licensing department on Wednesday (December 13) if it has successfully passed the test event. If it is successful, then it could see more than 57,000 fans at Anfield for Sunday’s game against Manchester United.