Pascoe: Maximum points the aim
Colin Pascoe has revealed the desire for a quick return to action which follows a defeat and outlined the Reds' objectives during the hectic Christmas period – maximum points.
A 3-1 defeat against Aston Villa came as a surprise last Saturday after a three-game winning streak, and while the assistant manager acknowledged the disappointment of the setback, he found positives to take.
"When you've lost a game, you can't wait to get back out. It will be a tough game against Fulham - they have picked up in recent games, especially away from home," he told Liverpoolfc.com.
"The way we passed the ball and controlled the game early on - it's disappointing that we lost the game. They took their chances - fair play to Villa. But the way we played and pushed forward, we'll always create chances."
The Cottagers arrive at Anfield on Saturday for the first of four Barclays Premier League fixtures in 11 days for the Reds - a demanding phase which Pascoe is anticipating with relish.
"It's fantastic, I've never known anything different. It's very busy around Christmas and that's the way we like it," the Welshman continued.
"Every game at Christmas, your aim is high. Every team will do exactly the same. We want to win every game and get maximum points."
Standing in the way of the Reds will be Dimitar Berbatov, who has bagged five goals and shone for the Londoners since arriving from Manchester United in the summer. But Pascoe has a plan to stop the Bulgarian.
"Berbatov is a great player - he roams around and gets goals. He'll be a big threat for us. If he is on form and hits his peak, he can hurt any team," he reflected.
"They are a well-organised team, playing 4-4-2. We've got to make sure we're on top of our game and we keep the ball. We'll try to keep the ball away from him."
A familiar face is likely to be among the Fulham line-up too - with former Red John Arne Riise returning to Anfield, and the coaching staff are well aware of the threat the Norwegian poses.
Pascoe explained: "He was a great player here and he's got a great left foot. We'll have to close him down early on because he's got a great shot, he's great going forward and always a threat on that side."