Jurgen Klopp sends heartwarming message to Melwood veteran Kenny Grimes

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has sent a heartwarming message to outgoing staff member Kenny Grimes who was a gateman at Melwood.

Having joined the club in 1994, Grimes has spent more than a quarter of a century in faithful service to the Merseysiders.

With him being told to retire due to his health, Klopp took time out to ensure he knew that his efforts are appreciated by the staff and players.

‘You are always welcome at Melwood and Kirkby. I’ll show you around Kirkby personally.’
Classy message from Jürgen Klopp to legendary Melwood gateman Kenny Grimes who is retiring after more than a quarter of a century of service to #LFC pic.twitter.com/jt92IRnFGT

— James Pearce (@JamesPearceLFC) April 18, 2020

Klopp has been familiar with Grimes ever since he first walked into Melwood. Working as a gateman, he literally ensured Liverpool got the ball rolling.

Speaking in the video, Klopp expressed his hope that he will continue to see Grimes more in the coming months. With his health deteriorating, Grimes has been asked to consider calling it a day.

“Wish you all the best my friend. See you soon”

Klopp has urged him to listen to the medical professionals and enjoy a well-earnt retirement. The German also went on to offer to show him around the new training facility at Kirkby.

A new beginning

It is in a way an end of an era at the club. Liverpool are set to leave their historic training base at Melwood and move to the new state of the art facility at Kirkby.

With the coronavirus pandemic halting construction, it remains to be seen if the move will take place as expected. In case it is delayed, the Reds will continue to train at Melwood until the facility at Kirkby is ready.

Klopp’s offer to show the 71-year-old around our new facility is a fitting show of thanks to a loyal supporter of the club. Grimes was forced to quit last September after suffering a stroke. It was hoped that he could make a return, but that looks unlikely now.

Both he and his son were given hospitality tickets among the players’ families for our FA Cup clash against Everton in January.

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Grimes has seen no lesser than seven managers during his time at the club. The fact that his time at Melwood is coming to an end with Liverpool at the top of the league will be a fitting tribute to his efforts.

A football team is more than just the players on the pitch. Right from the tea ladies to the gatemen, everyone involved plays a huge part in the club’s success.

We would like to wish the veteran the very best and thank him for everything he has done for the club. We hope he can sit back and enjoy our success in the full knowledge that he opened the door for today’s glory to walk in.