Former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann believes his old side have got their ‘fear factor’ back under new manager Jurgen Klopp.
Klopp was appointed as the manager of the Reds following the sacking of Brendan Rodgers and the German has guided his side to away victories over title holders Chelsea and title challengers Manchester City.
The Anfield outfit registered a 3-1 win over Jose Mourinho’s side in October with Philippe Coutinho netting a brace.
Last Saturday, Klopp’s side demolished Manuel Pellegrini’s side 4-1 at the Etihad with the Brazilian duo of Coutinho and Roberto Firmino combining to devastating effect.
Hamann, who featured 59 times for Germany, believes it is essential to win big games both home and away if a team are looking to challenge for top honours.
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Speaking in an interview with the club’s official website, Hamann said: "I think, for the team, it was a small step – but I think psychologically it was a massive step.
"In recent years the team struggled to beat top teams – especially away from home.
"If you want to compete for trophies, a Champions League place, or maybe even for a league title, you’ve got to sometimes win these games away to Manchester United, Arsenal, Manchester City.
"To go [to City] and to win the game, and also the way they did win, more or less put the game to bed in the first half, was majorly impressive.
"And it’ll also send shockwaves around the Premier League because I think since the new manager has come in gradually performances have improved and results have improved.”
The former Bayern Munich midfielder believes that in recent times, clubs didn’t mind playing Liverpool. However, in light of the recent results, clubs will again fear the Reds.
"That fear factor has always been a big part in Liverpool’s history, not only away from home but especially at home.
"I think a lot of teams will be wary in the next few weeks when they do play Liverpool, whereas maybe a year ago people didn’t mind playing Liverpool."
Klopp’s side host Bordeaux in a Europa League encounter tonight and will be looking to secure a victory to boost their chances of finishing as group leaders.
