Reaction'We want to win it again' - Diogo Jota and Curtis Jones speak after Carabao Cup victory over West Ham
The Reds recovered from the setback of a Jarell Quansah own goal to secure a comprehensive final scoreline at Anfield, and a trip to Brighton & Hove Albion in round four.
Jota scored twice – with his second strike assisted superbly by Jones – to turn the tide in the hosts’ favour on Wednesday night, before Mohamed Salah netted and, after Edson Alvarez had been sent off, Cody Gakpo bagged a late brace.
Post-match, Jota and Jones spoke to Sky Sports. See the interview in full below.
On it being a ‘comfortable’ evening’s work for Liverpool…
Jota: Maybe not. I think the result says so but the game was completely different – we scored a couple of goals now towards the end and when they were down to 10 men. I think they made it hard for us [before then], they kept the ball, it was a good game in general and we are just happy to go through.
On his first goal of the night being crucial as it levelled the score…
Jota: Yeah, it’s important when you are down, obviously, to get that equaliser as quick as possible and to score at Anfield, on an Anfield night, is always special so I’m happy to help the team.
On the game being important for Jones…
Jones: Yeah, I’m just a lad who always wants to play. It’s been hard, I’ve had an injury but now I’m back and I’m playing games with a smile on my face.
On there being so much competition for a spot in the starting XI…
Jones: Yeah, it’s always the way. We’ve got a big team, we’ve got a good quality team as well but we can change the whole team there and play well and win. So, that’s what we do.
On the Reds making a strong start to the season…
Jota: Yes, we just have one defeat. Obviously we are still progressing, still developing our ideas, but only winning games you become better.
On seeking to retain the Carabao Cup trophy…
Jota: Yeah, it’s hard but we want to do it again. Obviously, we are the reigning champions and we want to progress.
MatchThe opposition lowdown: Southampton
Interview'We can't take our foot off the gas' - Caoimhin Kelleher previews Southampton v Liverpool
Play nowCaoimhin Kelleher birthday quiz: Can you get 9/9?
FeatureClinical Harvey, Robbo's 'bullet' and Danns shock - things spotted in Friday's training
MatchSouthampton v Liverpool: Team news