NewsPhotos and video: Liverpool men's squad make annual Christmas visit to Alder Hey

Jürgen Klopp and his Reds players visited the specialist children’s hospital, based in West Derby, which treats hundreds of thousands of young people each year.

They spent time with patients and their families on the wards, hearing their stories, posing for photographs and handing out some LFC gifts to mark the festive period, as well as meeting Alder Hey staff.

“I recognise every year when we are here, the spirit of the parents. You feel they are here in the right place,” said Klopp.

“You ask them how they are and [they say] ‘Oh, much better than a week ago.’ So much positive news here, and the atmosphere with the nurses and the doctors and the whole staff is just amazing.

“The boys want to be here, the boys feel the impact they have when they arrive here. Some kids are maybe a little bit too small but in a few years when their parents show them the pictures they will be happy.

“You never want your kid to go to hospital but if it’s necessary, I think Alder Hey is just the place to be. I cannot appreciate enough what these people are doing.”

Gill Kennedy, engagement and VIP manager at Alder Hey, said: “Liverpool’s visit is always a very special day at Alder Hey. As part of our Christmas tradition, we welcomed Liverpool’s manager and squad for their annual visit, where they have made some truly special memories for our children, families and our staff.

“Being in hospital during Christmas can be difficult for our children and their families but to be given the opportunity to meet their football heroes is a dream come true and really lifts their spirits.

“We can’t thank Liverpool enough for their continued support.”

Take a look at the visit in the video above and photo gallery below.

Photos by John and Andrew Powell