Jerzy Dudek: The Champions League Interview

Have you thought about penalties deciding the final?

People think about the last Champions League final between Juventus and AC Milan and say it was probably the worst game ever because they both defended and maybe it will be like that again, we'll see what happens. You hope the striker will make a mistake and you can save the penalty but there is no pressure on the ?keeper. It is just you and the penalty taker, it is like a lottery. If you haven't bought the tickets then you can't win but I try to buy the ticket every time.

Do you have any tricks prepared like Bruce Grobbelaar with his wobbly legs?

Ah yes, that's very good because it has this psychological effect on the penalty taker. It always works against the opponent because it is only the two of you and the one who has the stronger nerves pulls through.

I know it is the biggest final in club football, win or lose how would you view this season for Liverpool. Has it been a failure because of that domestic fall?

Maybe. But if we lost against Juventus then we would have definitely got fourth place. You must focus on the two competitions and at the end of the season it is very difficult. Players may be tired but we enjoy playing in the Champions League much more than the Premiership this season. It was difficult for us to do well in the two competitions at the same time.

As for the night itself the whole world will be watching, how will you feel?

Very excited. It was fantastic when we beat Chelsea, all my friends and family were there and now they are coming to the final to watch. My friends and family have been waiting for this game and they have organised hotel rooms etc, they are excited and so am I.

What's it like in the dressing room before big games like this, what's the atmosphere like?

I think it wont be that different to any other game because everybody has their own routine and we all try and prepare ourself for the games. You can see it on players faces when they concentrate, especially before the last couple of games against Chelsea and Juventus. Desire in your head is a main target.

What improvements have you seen in Jamie Carragher, why has he become so invaluable to the club?

Well in every game I believe he has been the best man on the pitch. He has so much confidence now and we hope he will remain confident both for the club and his country. For all the players here we believe he is something special to have at the club.

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