Programme notesJordan Henderson: We need more of the same against West Ham
Jordan Henderson has called on Liverpool to build on the impressive victory over Manchester City against West Ham United at Anfield this evening.
The Reds face a swift turnaround ahead of tonight’s hosting of the Hammers in the Premier League following Sunday’s win over Pep Guardiola’s outfit.
Henderson – writing in his matchday programme notes – wants Jürgen Klopp’s squad to forget that result quickly and try to build momentum amid a busy run of fixtures.
The captain says: “More of the same. That is the only message after Sunday’s victory over Manchester City. Yes, that was a great win against a top side but now we have to build on it.
“In my book that means the same effort, the same desire, the same quality and hopefully the same outcome.
“The good thing is this has never been a team that rests on its laurels or enjoys the moment when it has already passed. It is one that thrives on the next challenge, whatever that might be.
“Tonight that means taking on a West Ham United team which is climbing the table and doing well in Europe once again, so it’s not as if the tests are getting any easier.
“Obviously, a result like the one we’ve just had creates a lot of hysteria and interest outside of the club, but just as was the case when results were not going our way we have to remain focused, keep our feet on the ground and keep on striving to do the things that we know make us a tough opponent for anyone.
“So we won’t be dwelling on Sunday whatsoever. We will take the good elements from it and we will also work on the parts that are not so good, but other than that we have already moved on from it.
“The only exception I will make on this is with the atmosphere because during the second half especially it was absolutely incredible.
“You know Anfield is on its toes when you’re on the pitch and you’re struggling to hear instructions from the bench and even what your teammates nearby are saying to you. Sunday was exactly like that and I know I can speak for all of the lads when I say it makes such a difference.
“The noise, the support, the fervour – they were all off the scale. I know it’s not possible because the very best atmospheres are almost always created by events and circumstances, but if it is anything even close to those levels tonight it will be a big help to anyone and everyone who pulls on a red shirt.
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“I also know that it is up to us, the players, to provide the spark. If we do our bit then history tells us that the Anfield crowd will do theirs. I don’t mind admitting, though, that this kind of atmosphere is unbelievably addictive. Once you have experienced it, you want it more and more, especially when you see the positive effect it can have on our team and our results.
“I know for a fact that I wouldn’t enjoy playing at Anfield as an opposition player when the atmosphere is like that. It must be so intimidating while at the same time giving us Liverpool players a massive lift. That’s why it has always been our not-so-secret weapon.
“When team and supporters are galvanising one another it is almost certain to bring out the very best in each other. That’s why it’s so addictive. You literally can’t get enough of it.”
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