Arne Slot urges Liverpool stars to prove why Champions League ‘missed us’ as Reds look to continue winning form in Europe against Serie A side Bologna
- Slot wants his side to remember how special Champions League nights really are
- The Reds lost only once in all competitions under the Dutchman this season
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Arne Slot has challenged Liverpool players and fans to show the rest of Europe why their absence from the Champions League last season was a blow to the entire continent.
The Reds have won seven of eight games under the Dutchman and European top teams return to Anfield on Wednesday with the visit of Bologna, the second Italian opponent this season after a 3-1 victory at San Siro against AC Milan.
Liverpool spent last season in the wilderness of the Europa League, losing to final winners Atalanta in the quarter-finals. But they are back on top and Slot jumps at the chance to witness a Champions League night under the lights at Anfield.
“I am privileged enough to have worked at Feyenoord last season with Champions League nights,” said the 46-year-old. ‘People say it will be even more special here.
Arne Slot wants his players to remind themselves how special Champions League matches are
Liverpool have won seven of eight games in all competitions under Slot this season
‘What I expect from my players is that after missing the Champions League for a year, when they leave tomorrow, I want to see and feel this. Like, ‘Ah, we missed this.’ They must be ready.
‘I want the same from the fans, I hope they feel the desire to show Europe again: ‘You missed us because of this’. This combination should result in a very special evening for everyone involved.’
Liverpool forward Diogo Jota missed two training sessions with a foot problem against Wolves but should at least be fine to make the squad, although new signing Federico Chiesa has a minor problem and will miss. Andy Robertson is doing well after suffering a blow on Saturday.