Steven Gerrard claims that football will have a “big problem” if celebrations are removed from the game after Jurgen Klopp ran onto the pitch when Liverpool scored a last-minute winner against Everton.
Divock Origi sparked wild celebrations at Anfield when his injury-time goal gave the Reds a 1-0 victory over the Toffees in the Merseyside derby.
Klopp joined in by running onto the pitch to embrace goalkeeper Alisson, which he was fined for by the FA and warned over his future conduct.
However, Gerrard, who is currently in charge at Rangers, reckons he can “understand” the over-the-top celebration given the profile of the match and circumstances of the goal.
“He ran about 30 yards less than me when I celebrated a goal!” Gerrard said.
“Listen, it’s an emotional sport and an emotional game. You win a derby in the 96th minute, emotions naturally take over your body and your decision making.
“I can understand it. I love Jurgen Klopp for who he is. He’s real, he’s authentic.
“Of course, us as managers have a responsibility to try and tame it as much as we can, but sometimes that it is difficult.
“He’s come out and apologised and it is what it is.
“I think there is a big problem in this sport if we take celebrating out of it.
“It’s not the reason why we love Jurgen Klopp, but is (Jose) Mourinho not famous for sprinting down the touchline? Do the viewers not love this?
“Of course, you open yourself up to be punished, but I don’t think we can actually criticise people for being emotional.
“I love that side of people. I love it when they are real and let themselves go.
“Of course you must respect the opposition managers and coaches, but to celebrate a big win or a big goal, I want that to stay.”
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