Javier: Two key points to get all three
Javier Manquillo has highlighted two key factors he believes can help Liverpool defeat Real Madrid on Wednesday night – self-belief and capitalising on the raucous support of the Anfield crowd.
The 20-year-old is anticipating a mouthwatering contest against the Champions League holders in the Group B showdown, acknowledging the ferocious start Carlo Ancelotti's men have made to 2014-15.
However, with the backing of the Kop on what is sure to be another European occasion to savour, Manquillo insists the Reds must be confident they can emerge with three valuable points.
"It's going to be a great game," he told Liverpoolfc.com. "It's the biggest competition in Europe and we'll play against a big club. Real Madrid have got great players - every footballer wants to play against the best and Real Madrid are one of them.
"It's one of those games players always want to play in, against some of the best players in the world. But we have to stay confident and be ready to try to have a good game to be able to get three points out of it.
"We know Real Madrid from the Spanish league and they can indeed be lethal when counter-attacking - they can score anytime with the players they have up front, but we have to think about how we can make a great game and take advantage of the fans' support to get a win.
"We have to be very concentrated from the very first minute of the game as they are one of the best sides and might score at any moment. If we stay alert throughout the whole game, with the support from the fans and having a good performance, I believe we can get the three points."