Klopp: The fans have been huge for us so far - and it must continue

The boss feels the atmospheres generated at home so far this term have proved advantageous to his side – and he wants that to continue this afternoon.

Writing in his column in ‘This is Anfield’, Klopp said: “What is not allowed is that we lose focus or think beyond the next obstacle. Today that is Watford – they are our first, last and everything in this moment.

“I am the lucky one who gets to manage these players every day and I am lucky to work with them and see their attitude every day. Of course it is for me, Zeljko, Pete and the other coaches and staff to make sure the message is always clear, but to be honest the players are ahead of us in this. They are focused. They know that the only game we can try to win is the next one.

“This afternoon we welcome Walter Mazzarri, the players, staff, officials and supporters of Watford to Anfield. Walter is a hugely experienced manager and has adapted quickly to life in England, having spent most of his career in Italy. He has all the qualities to be a big success in the Premier League. I know his teams are very organised and tactically strong. They will be an extremely difficult opponent. They have quality players throughout their team, but we will be ready and we look forward to this challenge.

“Once again our supporters will have a big part to play. We are here today for an early-afternoon Sunday kick-off, but there is no reason why the atmosphere cannot be special. There is no reason why we cannot make this a special game and a special afternoon.

“The fans have played a huge role so far but, as with the players, they need to continue on this path. The matches at Anfield this season have been perfect for us in terms of the atmosphere playing a role in helping the team. The same level of performance would be perfect.”

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