JUST HOW DO YOU REPLACE JURGEN KLOPP?

ROBERT J WILSON ON THE CHALLENGE AHEAD FOR LIVERPOOL AS THEIR INSPIRATIONAL GERMAN BOSS PREPARES TO WALK AWAY...

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JURGEN Klopp's impending departure from Liverpool has probably not even sunk in yet for supporters. Time is running out on what has been a memorable period for the Merseyside club - and their German manager appears irreplaceable.

You don't entirely realise how much you miss something until it's truly gone.

Liverpool without the popular Klopp at the helm will certainly take some getting used to.

His decision to end his nine-year tenure on his own terms came as a shock to many. Back in late January he announced that he would step down at the end of the season, indicating a lack of energy to perform such a high-profile job 'on three wheels'.

But with more elite managers electing to take a sabbatical before returning to the dugout, you can hardly blame him.

It will certainly be interesting to see if Klopp is attracted back to management and, if so, where that may be.

Due to his affection for and allegiance to Liverpool, he has literally ruled himself out of ever managing another English club, so would he fancy a move to Spain, Italy or perhaps Paris St Germain?

A move closer to home could see a return to the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich or perhaps one of the German underdogs. The national team could also be a tempting proposition if he were to be offered that position. Maybe the lesser demands made on international managers would suit.

Klopp evidently wanted to spend more time with his family and the rigours of modern management can take their toll both mentally and physically.

From his press conference in the wake of his decision, it seemed he wanted to remain healthy and young enough to enjoy a different perspective on life, away from the relentless pressures of football management.