No.6 David Maddock (Daily Mirror)
David Maddock from the Daily Mirror explains how the Jürgen Klopp effect has transformed Liverpool's fortunes for the better.
It is a European final, and given Liverpool's history that is enough in its own right to make the Europa League final another milestone.
Yet Wednesday's game takes on a significance even beyond that, because it confirms not only to the fans that the Klopp effect is taking dramatic, sublime hold on the club but to the players as well.
Professional football is a game for sceptics these days. Yes, the Reds squad will have known about their new manager's reputation, and no doubt have been intrigued by his arrival. But they will have required evidence that he is the real deal and his exacting methods not only worked, but were good for them too.
With this final, and the exhilarating run to it, they have got that evidence and more.
When Klopp arrived, there was a malaise around Anfield, a feeling things were falling apart within the squad, not coming together, and it is not too harsh to say there was a lack of belief.
Slowly, inexorably, the new manager has instilled that belief - and some. He has won over his squad with his enthusiasm, but also the effectiveness of his approach to the game. It asks a lot of the players, but gives a lot in return, as the appearance in a showcase final proves beyond doubt.
And let no-one tell you it isn't a showcase final. This is a massive occasion, and a massive achievement, because beating Manchester United, Dortmund and Villarreal on the way there is as tough as - say - Manchester City's progress to the Champions League semi-final.
Liverpool will have taken heart from the quality of teams they have beaten, and the manner in which they won. They were too good for United, compelling at Anfield and irresistible, then were simply too spirited, too tough-minded and had too much desire for a classy Dortmund team.
Against Villarreal they combined both of those qualities to produce a near perfect performance at Anfield, which shows not only that Klopp is an inspiration, but he is a tactically astute, modern coach too, who knows how to win games against the best opponents.
That is why this Europa League final is so important for Liverpool, because it is a milestone on the road that Klopp has mapped out - the road to glory.