'Anfield atmosphere can inspire Reds against Man Utd'
The atmosphere generated by a packed, floodlit Anfield could be the difference-maker for Liverpool when they take on arch-rivals Manchester United on Monday evening.
That is the view of former Reds striker David Fairclough, who is hoping for a repeat of last season's European success when United come to town next week.
Jürgen Klopp's team head into their latest meeting with the Red Devils off the back of a four-game winning streak in the Premier League that has left them just two points off top spot.
But Fairclough expects the in-form hosts to find an 'awkward' test awaiting them.
For that reason, he believes a fervent home support will be important in helping the Reds get over the line - just as they were during a 2-0 Europa League last-16, first-leg victory last term.
"Underneath the lights, Anfield is a totally different place," he told Liverpoolfc.com.
"We played them in the Europa League last year and it was a fantastic atmosphere and the lights bring the best out of Anfield sometimes, so hopefully there'll be something similar.
"There will be that urgency to win, we love beating Manchester United, and it's a big game so everyone can't wait for it.
"It's an awkward fixture, they're huge rivals. But we can set the tempo with the atmosphere and I'm sure Jürgen will be appealing to the fans to really take part on Monday night.
"And if the atmosphere is up, generally that brings out the best performances at Anfield."
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Liverpool are the joint-highest goalscorers in the league this season alongside Manchester City, having found the back of the net on 18 occasions in their seven games so far.
And Fairclough predicts that the Reds will take a similarly attacking approach on Monday, even if their opponents do not.
"I think games against United are normally [high-tempo] but this time [they could] approach it a bit softer in terms of not rushing out - they won't want to make it open," he added.
"They'll have done their homework, obviously, and they'll try to frustrate Liverpool - we know how Jose Mourinho approaches games at Anfield. But from Liverpool's point of view, I don't think we'll see much change.
"Liverpool will play that style that we know they're now comfortable with and, if they get an early breakthrough, they could make life easier for themselves."
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'Super Sub' also underlined the importance of a patient approach should Jose Mourinho's men come looking to frustrate their hosts.
"Clearly, we'll have to be prepared for a patient spell and hopefully we don't get frustrated," he continued.
"We won't want to give anything away and they certainly won't come and create an open game. It's up to everyone to remain patient and continue to do the things we do well.
"We know that we'll get chances and, when those chances come, you have to be ready. You're not going to get an abundance of chances against Manchester United and we have to appreciate that, when they come, we can't afford to waste them."