Jurgen Klopp explains why he kept Daniel Sturridge on bench against Villarreal

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has explained why he opted against bringing Daniel Sturridge off the bench during last night's Europa League semi-final against Villarreal.

Klopp chose to start a team without a recognised striker and as the clock ticked down in the second half he decided to bring on Christian Benteke as opposed to Sturridge.

The match looked destined for a goalless draw, but in the 92nd minute, Adrian Lopez scored the winner for Villarreal, who will head to Anfield next week for the second leg.

When asked why Sturridge was not used, Klopp told reporters: "We had one or two situations in defence with set pieces and Christian can help us in this situation, and that was the only reason.

"It was not really for attacking, but we had this moment and I thought it wasn't a bad idea [to bring Benteke on]. We had no luck."

Sturridge could return to the starting lineup for this weekend's Premier League match against Swansea City.