Peter sits down with our regular guest Paul Smith to discuss the week’s events at LFC
What were your thoughts on the performance against Newcastle?
A tactical one. We knew Rafa would come and make it hard and his plan worked for 40 minutes. It was a patient game and one where a mistake would gift us something. That proved to be the case. Once we got the first goal it was inevitable another would follow and the second was world class. Very good performance.
Are we now showing that even if teams come and play with 10 men behind the ball that we will still break them down?
Klopp has worked very hard on this in training, he must have. In the past, we would surrender leads by trying to get in front. In games like this we would go for the jugular and in the first 20 minutes run ourselves tired and lose control. Klopp has worked on that and told his players to be patient. Now we are seeing that. Very good management.
Who was your mom v Newcastle?
Bobby Firmino. His work rate and intelligence in the game is unreal. He makes things happen in play and when we are trying to gegenpress. His work rate is unreal. And deserves so much praise.
Although Klopp said he’d go full strength v Porto do you see him making many changes?
I do, but not many. Klopp will be thinking; get it done and get the tie over asap then look to rest. I expect Salah and Bobby to he rested, maybe even VVD.
Give us your line up you would pick for Man Utd?
I wouldn’t change from the Newcastle game that had energy and enthusiasm in it. We need to be full of energy and right at them from the off. My 11 would be Kauris TAA Lovren VVD Robbo Hendo Can Ox Bobby Mane Salah.
Give us your score prediction for both Porto and Man Utd please?
The Porto game I’ll be happy with 2-0. United depends on how they do at Palace. A defeat may give us the edge as they will have to attack so going 2-1. Up the reds.