Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp explains how his players can avoid another Sevilla-like collapse

Klopp's side would have already have qualified from Group E if not for their collapse in Spain

Mark Critchley
Tuesday 05 December 2017 11:10 EST
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Jürgen Klopp's side will qualify if they avoid defeat to Spartak Moscow at Anfield
Jürgen Klopp's side will qualify if they avoid defeat to Spartak Moscow at Anfield (Getty)

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Jürgen Klopp is not allowing his Liverpool players to dwell on their stunning collapse against Sevilla a fortnight ago ahead of their final Champions League group stage game.

Klopp’s side would have already secured progression to the knock-out phase for the first time in nine years had they held onto a three-goal lead at a raucous Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan.

Instead, Liverpool allowed their hosts back into the game, with two Yassim Ben Yedder goals and a stoppage-time equaliser by Guido Pizarro levelling the score at 3-3.

That draw means Klopp’s side must avoid defeat to Spartak Moscow on Wednesday night in order to book a place in the last 16, and the Liverpool manager wants his players to forget what might have been in Seville.

“There is absolutely no reason to think about that,” he said, when how he can prevent his players from repeating their spectacular collapse. “I cannot think before each game about a 3-0 lead and then the other team coming back.

Klopp also believes that, in the same way that Sevilla were inspired by their home stadium’s noise, the Anfield crowd will have a big part to play on Tuesday night.

“If we had been 3-0 up at Anfield it would not have happened as the atmosphere helped a lot. Tomorrow I really think the atmosphere can and should help us.

“We all know how special this place can be in specific moments and that is what I am looking for and that is what I want.

Klopp added: “Thank God it's a little bit cold so everyone needs to move to keep warm. I am really excited about the opportunity.

“You don't have guarantees in life but if you don't try all you get nothing so let's try all and we will see where it leads us to.”

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