Klopp relishes return to Germany

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he was relishing his return to Germany ahead of Thursday's Europa League tie with Augsburg and would take advantage of the chance to eat food not available in England.

"It's nice to be back," Klopp told a news conference on Wednesday, ahead of the first-leg clash in the last 32 of the competition.

"I've already let the kitchen know I'm requesting pretzels for dinner because you can't really get them in England.

"I was here for 47 years. It's no problem, I know this country," Klopp added. "It is more special for other people because there are not too many German managers working in foreign countries."

Klopp had previously coached Mainz and Borussia Dortmund, where he won two Bundesliga titles, before taking up his role with Liverpool.

Augsburg are struggling against relegation from the Bundesliga this season but hope taking on five-time European champions Liverpool can inspire them. Midfielders Jan Moravek and Daniel Baier are out with injury while Hong Jeong Ho and Piotr Trochowski are doubtful.

"I know a lot about Augsburg and that makes the preparation easier but that is all," Klopp said. "In the end, they will fight for everything.

"They have said it is the biggest game in their history. If it is the biggest game in their history you can imagine how ready they are for this game."