Flanno: We'll heed Stevie's words
Jon Flanagan insists Liverpool will heed the emotional words of Steven Gerrard and not allow themselves to get carried away with Sunday’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Manchester City.
Philippe Coutinho's 78th minute strike secured a crucial three points for the Reds and strengthened their position at the top of the Barclays Premier League table with four games remaining.
Upon the full-time whistle, the team gathered in a huddle in front of the Kop in which Gerrard outlined in no uncertain terms why Brendan Rodgers' side must be ready to go again when they travel to Norwich City next weekend - and Flanagan asserts they will follow the captain's orders.
He told the Liverpool Echo: "It was a great win. All the lads and all the fans are believing we can do it now.
"Stevie said in the huddle that we need to go again next weekend at Norwich and he's right.
"We haven't achieved anything yet and we all know that. Man City is gone and it's about the next game.
"Steven has been phenomenal. He has carried this club for years and he deserves this more than anyone.
"All the lads are doing it for themselves but especially for Stevie as well.
"We have to stay focused and prepare for Norwich.
"There are still another four games to be won and we can't allow things to slip.
"We need to keep going like this right to the end."
Liverpool secured a 10th straight victory as they raced into a two-goal lead at a raucous Anfield thanks to first-half goals from Raheem Sterling and Martin Skrtel.
City staged a fight back after the break, drawing level through David Silva and a Glen Johnson own goal.
However, Coutinho had the decisive say when he swept home from just inside the box to send the home faithful into delirium.
Flanagan added: "We've sent out a statement with a great performance and a massive three points.
"City are a great side and we knew they would come on strong in the second half.
"There was a bit of sloppy defending from us for their two goals but we showed our spirit, kept playing and Philippe stuck away a brilliant winner."
Liverpool fans once again played their part, and the home team bus was greeted by the incredible sight of thousands of supporters lining Anfield Road prior to kick-off to afford the players a hero's welcome.
They then generated an atmosphere that will live long in the memory inside Anfield - and Flanagan was keen to pay tribute to their influence.
He said: "From when the coach arrived, to the warm-up, and then the game itself, the fans were brilliant.
"The atmosphere was immense. We have to say a big thank-you to the fans for all the support they gave us from start to finish.
"There are always nerves going into such a big game but as soon as the game began, I was just focused on that. Support like that really inspires you as a player."