Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has hailed his team's performance in the 2-0 Europa League win over Manchester United at Anfield.

The German believes that his side performed admirably throughout the 90 minutes of the Round of 16 first leg on Thursday night, praising his players for showing plenty of energy for the entire contest.

Following the game, Klopp said: "It was good, from the first second until the last.

"There were a few minutes in the second half where we lost a little bit of control, so we changed the system and again needed a few minutes to adapt to the new system.

"Then we were back in the game and in control again. It's not too important how you play against Manchester United, it's always difficult to avoid chances. [But] there wasn't really a lot, so that's one of the best things about this game.

"Our game in the first half, we had more chances and could have scored more goals. But that's how it is in football. We forced one goal with a perfect pass in the box.

"In the second half, scoring the second goal was very important. We did it and it was absolutely deserved.

"It was a great performance from the first until last second. It is only the first leg, we know that, but we needed to win and we did. That's great.

"Now one week until the next game – we know it is not easy but we are in a good position and we want to go to the next round. For that, we have to play like this again in Manchester."

The Reds, who have Daniel Sturridge and Roberto Firmino to thank for their goals, will play the Red Devils next Thursday at Old Trafford in the second leg of the last-16 tie.