Jurgen Klopp has explained that Liverpool need to be defensively astute to beat Villarreal in the Europa League semi-final second leg clash at Anfield tonight.
The Reds, whose seven-game unbeaten run in all competitions came to an end with a 1-0 loss to Villarreal in the first leg last week, were thrashed 3-1 by Swansea City in the Premier League on Sunday.
Liverpool now not only have to beat Villarreal at Anfield, but will also have to be wary of conceding an away goal which could tilt the semi-final tie in favour of the Spanish outfit.
And Klopp, who insisted that Liverpool will be totally prepared for tonight’s clash against Villarreal, however, feels there is no guarantee that his side will progress to the Europa League final.
The German tactician went on to add that although he wants Liverpool to take a patient approach, he would welcome an early goal from the Merseyside giants at Anfield.
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“Right…but it would not be a problem if we could win it in the first 10 minutes!” Klopp told the club’s official site, when asked if Liverpool need to be patient against Villarreal.
“But you’re right, of course, especially against a side like Villarreal with their unbelievable strength in counter-attacking.
“We should not open gaps, we should be really disciplined in our protection and in general in our defending.
“We will be really, really prepared – maybe perfectly prepared – and in the end we have to accept they are a pretty good side and there is no guarantee of anything.”
