Jurgen Klopp 'has appendix removed' as Liverpool held by Sunderland

Assistants Zeljko Buvac, Peter Krawietz, Pep Ljinders and John Achterberg took charge in the German manager's absence.

Klopp apparently felt unwell after speaking to the media at his pre-match press conference on Friday, and Times journalist Tony Barrett reported on Saturday afternoon that the German underwent successful surgery to remove the inflamed appendix on Saturday afternoon.

"Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp will be absent from today's Premier League fixture against Sunderland at Anfield, after suffering a suspected bout of appendicitis," said Liverpool in a statement.

"First-team duties will be overseen by the remaining members of the coaching staff, including Zeljko Buvac, Peter Krawietz, Pepijn Lijnders and John Achterberg."

Liverpool were held 2-2 by Sam Allardyce's relegation-threatened Sunderland at Anfield - though they were leading 2-0 before supporters' groups followed through on their threat to stage the first walk-out in Anfield's 132-year history, which came in the 77th minute of Saturday's match.

Shortly after the walkout began Jermain Defoe scored a goal for Sunderland, and the visitors then equalised in the 89th minute.

The protest was over ticket prices: specifically the £77 match tickets (up from £59) and £1,000 season tickets that were announced this week.