Arne Slot has called for Anfield to play its part as Liverpool host Man United on the back of three defeats, with a message to supporters ahead of the return to action.
After three losses in a row and the nature of their last-gasp defeat last time out, the mood around Liverpool has been low during the international break.
The two-week gap between fixtures certainly didn’t help, allowing fans to stew on the issues that have emerged in the defeats to Crystal Palace, Galatasaray and Chelsea.
But Slot has urged Liverpool supporters to “help us” as his side look for an emphatic return to form in “the game that’s been watched the most all over the world.”
“I look forward to every single Premier League game but maybe even more towards the United one, because I know how special it is and I’ve experienced last season how special a game it is,” the head coach told reporters on Friday.
“We know that it’s probably the game that’s been watched the most all over the world. It’s special to be part of it.
“But in the end it’s also a game where we have to be at our best, because United, in my opinion, has had a better start of the season than maybe the league table is showing.
“A very interesting game and a game to look forward to, especially because it’s played at Anfield.
“I think our fans have been so supportive for us as long as I’m here and long before I was here.
“I think they understand that the team that has lost three times in a row, they need to be ready, our team, but I think our fans can help us and will help us on Sunday as well.”
Liverpool have not played at home since the 2-1 Carabao Cup victory over Southampton on September 23 and it cannot be overlooked that those three defeats all came in difficult away atmospheres.
That should serve to re-emphasise the power of Anfield, with the Reds winning all five of their home games so far this season including victories over Arsenal, Atletico Madrid and Everton.
Of course the onus will be on Slot and his players to showcase the football that feeds that special atmosphere – but it is a two-way street.
Supporters will be well aware of their role in ensuring victory over Man United, who have not won any of their last 10 trips to Anfield since a 1-0 win in the Premier League in January 2016.
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