Henderson: Let's turn this around for fans
Put things right tonight and pick up the points for our supporters - that's the message from Jordan Henderson ahead of Liverpool's crunch Champions League clash against Ludogorets Razgrad.
The Reds' vice-captain was part of the squad which flew out of Speke airport on Tuesday afternoon for the penultimate Group B encounter against the reigning Bulgarian champions.
Henderson played no part as Brendan Rodgers' side were defeated 3-1 by Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Sunday, with illness keeping the midfielder consigned to the sidelines.
Having trained at Melwood since the weekend, though, the No.14 insists he's feeling sharper and is hopeful of playing some part at the Vasil Levski Stadium this evening.
And he has issued a rallying cry to his teammates ahead of the clash with Georgi Dermendzhiev's charges, stressing the importance of showing fighting spirit in Sofia.
"We have got to start taking responsibility and picking up results for the fans and the club - and for ourselves as well, because we're working hard on the training field," he told Liverpoolfc.com.
"We need to get points on the board and put in good performances. We'll keep working hard and digging deep - hopefully we can turn the corner soon.
"One of the really good things about Liverpool fans is that when things are going well they are amazing, but when things are not going so well and we need them more than ever, they are always there and right behind the team.
"We know, as players, that ultimately it's our responsibility. We go onto the pitch every game and are the ones that need to put it right. It's not down to anybody else but ourselves.
"We know that and we need to take responsibility. But we've got a great group, great character and we'll keep fighting. I'm sure we'll bounce back - hopefully it's very soon."
On his own fitness, the 24-year-old remarked: "I'm feeling better; I have trained. Hopefully I can come back for the game."
Liverpool's only victory in the Champions League this season came against tonight's opponents on September 16 at Anfield, when Steven Gerrard struck a late winner from the penalty spot to clinch a 2-1 win.
FC Basel then inflicted a 1-0 defeat on the Reds in Switzerland before the reigning European champions, Real Madrid, won clashes on Merseyside and at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Henderson is anticipating a tough challenge against Ludogorets this evening - but the England international has belief that his side can halt a run of four defeats in all competitions.
"You've got to stay together, that's the most important thing - everybody as a team and together, working as hard as you possibly can every single day," he said.
"Every game is important, especially at the moment. It's a massive game for us; it will test our character because they are a good side.
"Ludogorets took it to the last minute at Anfield, so I'm sure it will be difficult going there. But it's a good game for us to go there and show what we're about, put in a good performance and hopefully get three points.
"We need every single player working together and as a unit, fighting to win the game. Hopefully we can do that and get the three points.
"They are a good side and it's going to be difficult - it always is in the Champions League. But so are we. At the moment we're going through a bad patch, but we still have quality players and are a good team."