Liverpool ace Andy Robertson believes the Reds must overcome a super-strong Atletico Madrid rear guard action tonight as they try to turn around the 1-0 reverse suffered in Spain in the first leg of the last-16 Champions League clash.
Jurgen Klopp’s men host the Spaniards at Anfield tonight (Wednesday)as they chase a place in the Champions League quarter-finals with Robertson outlining the importance of breaking down Atletico’s defence.
The Scot cites the unforgettable comeback against Barcelona last May as evidence that it is entirely possible but concedes that the approach to trying to garner a victory will be different to the night the Catalans were put to the sword in dramatic fashion. This is down to the way the visitors will approach the game tonight in terms of their tactics and style of play.
Speaking to the Merseyside giants’ website, he said that in some way he didn’t think it would be similar to the Barcelona win because
“they’re two very different sides. Barcelona came out, attacked and tried to get the goal they thought meant we would have to score five or whatever”.
Robertson says he thinks that Atletico will come out, try to pose a threat, attack the Reds and try to nab a goal because they know they can back themselves to defend it, adding:
“They are an unbelievable team at defending deep, at defending in the low block and things like that.”
Meanwhile, Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson says the hugely beneficial influence that the special Anfield atmosphere can have on the team’s efforts is never lost on the players. European nights at the famous old stadium are known the world over for just how electric the atmosphere can be and if ever a club had a 12th man then it is the Reds’ supporters on the night, for sure.
And Hendo, who watched on from the stands as the table-topping Reds saw off Bournemouth 2-1 in the Premier League on Saturday to snatch three points as they inch ever nearer to grabbing the title, reserved praise for supporters’ group Spion Kop 1906. He applauded the work they do and the effort they put in as something always worth highlighting because it makes such a positive impact. He said:
“I made a point of properly soaking in the feeling around Anfield on Saturday and in particular what was happening on the Kop. It made me realise why it’s so important.
“I saw on social media that they had 50 new flags made for the Bournemouth game and from a player’s point of view, the Kop looked better than ever. If you watch our players just before we assemble for kick-off, most have a proper look at the Kop and try to take a moment to take it all in.”
With the Kop in good heart, good song and with the confidence in the team bound to help them with their efforts, don’t rule out the Reds enjoying another fabulous night of European football tonight. Oh, and a victory would help!
