Ex-Liverpool FC center-back Dejan Lovren has admitted that he intentionally tried to hurt Real Madrid skipper Sergio Ramos following the Spaniard’s challenge on Mohammad Salah that left the Reds attacker in no position to remain on the pitch during the proceedings of the 2018 Champions League final.
Lovren, who left the Anfield giants to join Zenit in this summer’s transfer window, spoke about how he tried to catch Ramos with an elbow when the two players came up against each other in an international fixture between Spain and Croatia.
“I deliberately hit Ramos after hurting Salah? Yes, this is possible. I do not want to make a big story, but I think that what Ramos did was intentional to injure my friend, so it was It is time to pay for what he has done.”
The 33-year old Croatian international recalled how Real Madrid’s dominance in the 2018 Champions League final clash increased over Jurgen Klopp’s men following Salah’s coming off the pitch. The Merseyside Reds had been the better team on the pitch prior to Ramos’ wayward tackle on Salah, arguably Liverpool FC’s best player that season.
“We were playing much better than Real Madrid before Salah was injured in the Champions League final. His exit was a big blow for us, after his exit, they began to dominate the match.”
Ramos’ status as a world-class center-back was hailed by Lovren, who stated that he had loads of respect for the Spanish international’s trophy haul. However, the Real Madrid man’s behavioral aspect on the pitch came under intense criticism from the ex-Reds defender.
“I respect Ramos as a player and what he does for his team. He has won a lot of titles, but on the other hand, he does some behavior that I do not like and harm the players.”
