New Liverpool manager John Heitinga has already shared his thoughts on Jurgen Klopp

Liverpool’s new assistant manager John Heitinga has shared his insight into the squad under their former manager Jurgen Klopp. The appointment of the former Everton player to Liverpool’s coaching staff has sent shockwaves across Merseyside this week.

His addition is the latest in a series of changes at Anfield, however, as Arne Slot continues to revamp his set-up ahead of the new season. And the eyebrow-raising move sees fellow Dutchman Heitinga return to the city after a successful spell with the Reds’ local rivals from 2009-2014.

Earlier this month, Heitinga confirmed he was in talks with Liverpool and now the former Everton centre-back is officially red. However, the former defender’s move to the red side of Merseyside shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise, given that the 40-year-old has previously praised Liverpool under Klopp, as reported by the Mirror.

The experienced defender, who has also played for Ajax and Atletico Madrid, spoke to The Athletic when he revealed that the Reds’ style of play under Klopp has directly influenced his manager.

The former centre-back’s coaching journey began at Ajax’s youth team, before rising to the role of caretaker manager of the senior team. His CV also boasts a spell as David Moyes’ right-hand man at West Ham United last season.

Heitinga has taken influence from various places and has previously named those who shaped his managerial ethos, citing Moyes, Pep Guardiola and Klopp – praising the latter’s “intensity” in particular.

“There are a few influences: Ajax’s style of the past with Cruyff, but also Van Gaal and the relationship Moyes had with the players,” Heitinga said. “Pep Guardiola, Diego Simeone are two others. Also, Liverpool’s high intensity – when they get the ball, it’s the fastest way to score.”

Reds fans may worry about the prospect of changing their brand’s dynamism under Slot. However, Heitinga’s advocacy of a combative, forward-thinking approach should resonate with the Anfield faithful. He detailed his philosophy: “I know how I want my team to play. It’s Ajax DNA with fighting spirit. The system has changed if you see Ajax, sometimes they play with three number 10s.”

It is understandable that Heitinga’s Goodison legacy could cause some unease among Liverpool supporters. Bought by Everton as a 26-year-old from Atletico Madrid for a fee of less than £6m, Heitinga quickly endeared himself to Toffees fans, making 115 appearances for the club.

Reflecting on his time at Everton, he shared: “I saw Goodison and watched games live on TV. It was a special feeling. I’ll never forget my first day there – it was a very warm welcome.” and, in a statement that may not sit well with Liverpool fans, added: “A team like Everton will always be in my heart.”

Slott’s decision to bring in the former Blue is part of a major overhaul that has already seen him recruit staff members Fabian Otte, Aaron Briggs and Sipke Hulshoff in a significant shake-up at Liverpool. Supporters will also get their first glimpse of life at the Slot next week when they face Real Betis in their opening pre-season friendly.

The new manager says he has had a positive start to life on Merseyside. “I like it a lot. The pitches are great. The boys are full of energy; Pep (Lijnders) and Jurgen (Klopp) already told me last season that I will enjoy working with them and they have” No I lied at all.