Ibe: Away victory would be ideal start
A positive result in Bordeaux would provide the perfect Europa League platform for Liverpool ahead of back-to-back Anfield ties next month, according to Jordon Ibe.
The Reds run out at the Nouveau Stade de Bordeaux tonight to face their Ligue 1 opponents in the opening match of a group that also involves Rubin Kazan and FC Sion.
Having twice battled from behind to draw 2-2 with French giants Paris Saint-Germain in their most recent league outing, Bordeaux are sure to offer a stern test.
But Ibe echoed the sentiment we’ve heard from other members of the team and coaching staff – that Brendan Rodgers’ side are aiming to start the competition with a win.
“Getting a positive result in the away game would help us nicely,” the winger told Liverpoolfc.com. “Then coming home, with the fans helping us, we should do well.
“The last two games have been disappointing so it will be a chance for us to get some points and do well.”
After returning from a loan spell with Derby County midway through last season, Ibe featured in both legs of a Europa League knockout clash against Besiktas.
Each game ended in a narrow 1-0 home victory and Liverpool were ultimately eliminated by the Turkish club on penalties.
The tie did at least give Ibe first-hand experience of the nature of European football, which he hopes can be of benefit this time around.
He said: “You have to take your chances in any game, but it felt even more that you have to get a goal quickly because some teams sit and defend. I found it OK and enjoyed it.”