Klopp backs Benteke to end barren run against Aston Villa

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has backed misfiring striker Christian Benteke to rediscover his goal touch in time for his return to Aston Villa on Sunday.

Benteke is badly out of form as he prepares for his first appearance at Villa Park since leaving for Liverpool in a £32.5 million (HK$367 million) transfer last July.

The Belgium striker missed a series of inviting chances against West Ham United in the Reds’ midweek FA Cup fourth-round replay defeat and his dismal run without a goal has now extended to 11 matches.

However, Klopp seems to be encouraged by Benteke’s recent form and the German hopes his forward is on the verge of going on a scoring streak.

“I saw really good signs at West Ham. It is not the easiest period of his career but the number of opportunities he is getting is a good sign,” Klopp said.

“If he had no opportunities, it would be a much bigger problem. I talked to him a few times and gave him some advice as a human being and a coach and he has really tried to come back to an easy moment.