Millar on Manchester City clash and U23s challenge
Liam Millar has spoken about the rising confidence in the Liverpool camp as the U19s prepare to face Manchester City in the UEFA Youth League quarter-final tie on Wednesday afternoon.
Steven Gerrard's team have produced some outstanding performances during their journey to the last eight, and Canadian striker Millar insists there is no reason why they can’t continue their good run against Simon Davies’ team.
The teenager is hoping to get back on the goal trail after a recent barren spell but will approach the game in buoyant mood after receiving his first call-up to the senior Canada national team on Monday.
Millar spoke to Liverpoolfc.com ahead of the tie, offering his thoughts on the challenge the Reds face and discussing his recent step-up to the U23s.
On the feeling in the dressing room ahead of City…
Everyone is absolutely buzzing for this game. It’s the quarter-final of the youth Champions League and what else could you ask for as a young player? It will be a good test against Manchester City and hopefully we can keep on doing well in this competition.
On the key to the strong performances so far in Europe…
I just think all of us believing we can win this competition. We are a big club, there are other big clubs in this tournament, but if we keep playing well then I don’t see why we can’t win it. Don’t get me wrong, Manchester City are a good team, but there’s no reason why we can’t beat them if we all play well.
On enjoying playing in Europe for Liverpool…
It’s the first time I’ve ever played in the youth Champions League and it’s always been a dream. It’s fantastic, it’s a great competition for the young players and we think we can do really well in it.
On his preferred position...
To be honest I’m not really too fussed as long as I play. I don’t mind playing on the left, the right or up front. I will play anywhere for this team. I think my pace is probably my best attribute to be honest and I just want to try and do well.
On the prospect of a penalty shootout...
When I was younger I used to take every single penalty. We have Adam Lewis who is our penalty taker and he is very good at them so he takes them all. But 100 per cent I would put my hand up and say I would take one.
On scoring against Manchester City in the league back in November…
It was a fantastic ball from Eddie [Edvard Tagseth] and I was happy with the finish. We played really well in the first half and City came out flying in the second. I think we have learned from our mistakes in that game and we are confident we can do well.
On playing for the U23s recently…
The big difference is mostly physicality, probably. You get less time on the ball and you can’t do the fancy tricks you can do at U18 level. You have got to be quicker [in your thinking] but I think I’m starting to adjust to it more and I’ve been playing alright recently. I struggled in the game against West Ham United but with more experience I will be better.
We will have delayed coverage of tomorrow's tie on LFCTV and LFCTV GO. Follow live updates on Liverpoolfc.com.