Robertson: We have to find our spark again
Andy Robertson admits Liverpool have to rediscover their spark after Tuesday's disappointing result in Belgrade.
The left-back remains confident, however, that the Reds can secure passage to the Champions League knockout rounds in their remaining group games.
A 2-0 defeat against Red Star has thrown Group C wide open, with just two points now separating the four teams in the section, including Napoli and Paris Saint-Germain.
“It’s a tight group and it’ll go right to the wire,” said Robertson. “We’re still confident we’ll get through but we need to prove that now.
“We believe we can win every game, that’s always been the case with us. Away from home last season we were very good in the Champions League. This season we’ve found that a bit difficult.
“Arguably we’re still to play the best team away and we need to put in a much better performance than we have done so far.
“You don’t forget about these results quickly. The gaffer, win or lose, always speaks more the day after because that’s when he can clear his head and that’s where he gets the best out of us.”
- Jürgen Klopp's verdict from Belgrade
- Adam Lallana: There will be a reaction
- In numbers: LFC's 200 European Cup games
Liverpool’s inconsistent Champions League results – win, defeat, win, defeat – stand in contrast to their excellent Premier League form.
The Reds are unbeaten in the opening 11 league games and, as their tally of just five conceded goals suggests, have become a more robust side, capable of grinding out wins when necessary.
But adding flair to that functionality is important, insists Robertson.
The No.26 said: “I think it’s one of those periods we need to get through. Last season everyone was used to us scoring four or five goals.
“That can’t be possible every single game. At times we’ve dug out results, in the Premier League more so this season.
“Maybe it’s not been as good to look at but we’ve been effective at it. Maybe we are missing a bit of a spark in terms of not winning 4-0 or 5-0 in most games but if he [the manager] thinks that then we need to try to get it back.
“We need to come together as a team and try to give what the gaffer wants, try to get the spark and try to win games more comfortably.”