Flanno won't forget that remarkable roar
Almost two weeks have passed since the conclusion of Liverpool's 4-0 rout against Tottenham Hotspur drew an incredible roar from the Kop – but the memory remains fresh for Jon Flanagan.
Anfield lived up to its description as a 'cauldron' by Brendan Rodgers that Sunday, with the decibel levels before, during and after the action providing an added incentive to the table-topping Reds.
Victory over the London outfit increased the side's winning streak to eight, a record which was extended further when West Ham United were successfully edged last weekend.
With Rodgers' team now preparing to welcome Manchester City to Merseyside on Sunday, Flanagan has stressed the importance of the club's supporters to their ongoing challenge at the summit.
"The fans are going to be massive," the versatile defender told the Liverpool Echo. "They have been with us throughout the season.
"All the supporters I've spoken to can't wait for it. Everyone wants to be there for this one. They are one of the big reasons why our home form has been so good.
"The roar from the Kop after the Tottenham game a few weeks ago was unbelievable. They all stayed behind to show their support.
"They're our 12th man and having that kind of support inspires you as a player. It spurs you on and makes you go that extra mile. The fans want this as much as we do."
Liverpool's latest meeting with City arrives at a fitting time for Flanagan - it was April 11, 2011 when the Scouser was handed his senior debut against the same opposition.
The full-back was a focal point of composure and class on that occasion. Having now established himself as a mainstay under Rodgers, the No.38 is determined to continue his progress.
"This is definitely the biggest game of my career," he added. "Playing Manchester City at Anfield in a top-of-the-table clash with both teams going for the title - it doesn't get any bigger.
"I've got great memories of the first time I faced City. Walking out at Anfield that night was very special. I only found out I was definitely playing when Kenny Dalglish told me two hours before kick-off.
"There were a few nerves but, as the game went on, I settled and just focused on doing my job. Winning 3-0, it was a brilliant night to be part of. I'd settle for the same result on Sunday.
"So much has happened over the past three years. Initially, I had a good run following my debut but then I got a couple of injuries and my form dipped.
"I wondered if I'd get another chance but I just kept my head down and worked hard in training. Brendan put me back in the team and since then I've just given it everything to stay there.
"You've got to keep your standards high to stay in such a talented team. As a local lad who has supported Liverpool all my life, I'm living the dream. I want to stay here for as long as I possibly can."
When the Reds last crossed swords with Manuel Pellegrini's charges, on Boxing Day at the Etihad Stadium, the travellers were desperately unlucky to suffer a 2-1 reversal.
Three days after that defeat, Liverpool were beaten again - by the same scoreline, but against Chelsea. However, no team has been capable of downing Rodgers' men in the league in 2014.
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Flanagan continued: "We're going into it full of confidence on the back of nine straight wins. We've got five games to go and we want to extend this winning run right to the end.
"We were not expected to be up there at this stage of the season. We're at least a year ahead of schedule. But now we find ourselves in the title race and we want to take advantage.
"We all know that City are a great side with top players. Going forward they are a real threat but we're going into it with no fear. You could say there's more pressure on them than us, as they were expected to be up there.
"We know what they're all about but we're just concentrating on ourselves and what we do. We've got our game plan. We've done well in a lot of big games this season and this is another one we believe we can win.
"The manager has been brilliant with us. His message has been to keep calm and stay focused. I don't think nerves will play a part.
"We're on a great run and this team has been dealing really well with pressure. We've had a great week on the training ground and there is a buzz around the place."