'I've seen Anfield Euro nights on TV'
It's something he watched in awe on his television as a youngster growing up in Paris – and now Mamadou Sakho admits he can't wait to experience the electric atmosphere Anfield is famed for on European occasions for real.
Liverpool will make their return to the Champions League after a five-year absence by taking on Ludogorets Razgrad in the Group B encounter in front of the Kop on Tuesday evening.
It's sure to be an occasion to savour, with fans planning to mark it with a demonstration of exactly why the Reds' stadium can generate an unrivalled ambiance on such evenings.
"I've heard it on the television," Sakho smiled, when asked by Liverpoolfc.com if he knew what was in store on European nights at Anfield this season.
"I was very young at the time, I was still learning, but I know the atmosphere is very special when there is a Champions League match at Anfield.
"Many players say this is the stadium with the best crowd in the world, and it's true when you step into an arena like Anfield it's something special."
He added: "I'm proud. When I arrived last year one of my targets was to get us Champions League football, which we succeeded in doing.
"Now I'm very happy and proud for the club, for the team, and for this city as when we play we feel the support of the city. For me, Liverpool isn't just a city - it's a country of football. We feel the support of everyone."
The Champions League itself won't be a new experience for Sakho - he made three appearances in the tournament for Paris St Germain before his move to Merseyside.
Asked what makes the competition so enticing for players, he explained: "Because it's the highest-prized competition; it's the competition that all great players dream of winning.
"We must meet the biggest teams, be ready for them and try to beat them. The Champions League is something very important in a footballers' career."
One of those teams will be holders Real Madrid, who join Liverpool in Group B along with Swiss champions FC Basel.
However, first up for the Reds are Bulgarian title-holders Ludogorets - a team that no-one should be underestimating, states Sakho.
"I'll focus twice as hard as normal because you mustn't underestimate a team," said the centre-back when he explained how he'll personally prepare. "You must approach the match in the right manner and be twice as concentrated - the smallest error could be fatal and a slip up could occur.
"We must play to our strengths and not take our foot off the peddle, as the match could be dangerous."
Upon hearing the news of the draw, Brendan Rodgers was quick to insist Liverpool's target would be securing qualification in the knockout phase of the Champions League.
It's am ambition shared by the players.
"Of course, you must be confident," said Sakho. "All the efforts we have put into training since the return [from pre-season] have led us here, so I hope all our joint work is rewarded - the manager's tactics and everyone involved in the team. And we must remain confident because you need self-confidence."