No.2: Tony Barrett (The Times)
Tony Barrett from The Times explains why there is a very bright future ahead at Liverpool under Jürgen Klopp.
Whatever happens in Basel, Klopp has already achieved something that might not go beyond winning trophies but it could have longer lasting ramifications - he has restored the big club belief that Liverpool and its supporters thrive on. With that attitude, the Europa League final should be viewed as the start of something, as a catalyst for Liverpool to punch their weight at home and abroad.
That Klopp has put Liverpool in that position within seven months of taking over a team that had lost its way is remarkable; it is also an example for anyone who views the Europa League as second-rate. By treating the competition with the respect it deserves and viewing it both as an opportunity to win a trophy and a chance to qualify for the Champions League, Klopp has allowed this Liverpool team's European experience to grow at the same time as restoring the club's continental lustre.
No trophies or medals are awarded for those achievements, though, and having overseen a momentous run to the final featuring victories over Manchester United, Borussia Dortmund and Villarreal, Klopp will be desperate to ensure that all of that good work is not wasted at St. Jakob-Park. But he will also know that having taken such scalps, Liverpool have shown a growing ability to perform when and where it matters most, regardless of the pressure they are under.
That, more than anything else, is the legacy of his first season in charge. Liverpool are becoming a team that can be trusted because their manager has given them a big-game mentality. Should they display it once again against Sevilla, there is no reason why they cannot add a major honour to what they have already achieved under Klopp.
Follow Tony Barrett on Twitter @TonyBarretTimes.