'Things change quickly' - Gerrard backs Reds to respond
Steven Gerrard is confident Liverpool can get back on the winning trail and thereby change the atmosphere surrounding a recent run of frustrating form.
The Reds were denied a trip to Wembley for the EFL Cup final as they could not find a way past a well-organised and stubborn Southampton in the second leg of their last-four tie on Wednesday.
Shane Long’s stoppage-time strike sealed a 2-0 aggregate victory for the Saints, meaning Jürgen Klopp’s men have won only one of their seven games in all competitions in 2017.
But with an immediate chance to make amends when Wolverhampton Wanderers visit Anfield in the FA Cup tomorrow, Gerrard expects Liverpool to turn the tide quickly.
“I believe we’ve got the talent and personnel to come through this,” he told BBC Sport. “I think it’s important to just try to win your next game.
“Things change very quickly in football – if you string a couple of wins together, it can change the dynamics and how it looks straight away. I’m confident Liverpool can do that.”
The legendary former Reds captain begins a new role at the club next week when he returns as an Academy coach, beginning a fresh phase of his own career and imparting wisdom to the next generation of players.
Gerrard’s anticipation to get underway at the Kirkby base has been complemented by Klopp’s enthusiasm for the appointment and willingness to offer support.
“Obviously, Jürgen does it his way and we all respect that and we’re really happy to have him,” the Englishman said.
“We’ve been one of the most exciting teams out there to watch during his period. Of course, there’s a bit of a sticky patch going on the last three or four weeks, but I’m absolutely delighted that he’s our manager.
“He’s been incredible with me in our one-on-one discussions; he’s really gone out of his way to help me and welcome me back.”