Lovren is an outstanding centre half criticism is not fair liverpool boss klopp backs under fire defender

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Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp has come out in defense of under-fire defender Dejan Lovren, stating that criticism of the Croatian centre-half is "not fair".

Lovren has faced criticism in recent weeks for his performances on the pitch, with some fans and pundits questioning his ability to play at the highest level. However, Klopp has leapt to the defender's defense, insisting that Lovren is an "outstanding" centre-half who has been a key player for the Reds.

"I think it's not fair to criticize Dejan Lovren," Klopp said in a press conference. "He's an outstanding centre-half, one of the best in the world. He's been playing at an incredibly high level for us, and I think he's been fantastic.

"I know there have been some mistakes, but every player makes mistakes. Dejan is a top-class defender, and I think he's been a huge part of our success this season. I don't think it's fair to single him out for criticism when we're doing so well as a team."

Klopp's comments are likely to be music to Lovren's ears, as the defender has faced increasing scrutiny in recent weeks. Despite this, Lovren has remained a key player for Liverpool, starting 15 of the team's 17 Premier League matches this season.

The Reds boss also praised Lovren's leadership qualities, saying that the defender has been a "big influence" on the team's younger players.

"Dejan is a leader, and he's been a big influence on the younger players in the squad," Klopp said. "He's been a great role model, and I think he's been fantastic for us. I don't think it's fair to criticize him, and I think he deserves a lot of credit for what he's done for this team."

Overall, Klopp's comments are likely to be a boost to Lovren's confidence, and will likely help to silence some of the criticism he has faced in recent weeks.