Read Arne Slot's programme notes for Liverpool v Paris Saint-Germain

In fullRead Arne Slot's programme notes for Liverpool v Paris Saint-Germain

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Read Arne Slot's programme notes in full for Liverpool's Champions League quarter-final second leg with Paris Saint-Germain.

The Reds are aiming to overturn a 2-0 deficit at Anfield this evening and progress to the semi-finals of the competition.

Slot writes: "This is the fourth time in less than two seasons that we have played the French champions and while we are only too well aware of their quality, we also know the opportunity that is before us in front of our own fans at Anfield.

"First and foremost, it is a chance for us to show our own quality. Last week in Paris, it would certainly be fair to say that our opponents showed theirs and the 2-0 result in their favour was not one that anyone connected with Liverpool could or would complain about.

"But as the sign on our tunnel says – This Is Anfield. This is our stadium, these are our people and we know what is possible on nights like these if the performance of the Liverpool team creates the possibility for everything coming together on and off the pitch.

"As I said immediately after the first leg, PSG kept us alive so we have to use the lifeline that we have been given as well as we can. This means giving absolutely everything we can, coping with the pressure that we will inevitably have to deal with and being able to suffer in periods when necessary.

"Most of all, it means performing in the Liverpool way – showing desire from first whistle to last, competing relentlessly and hopefully producing the kind of football that is required on occasions like this. We know the ingredients that are required, we just have to produce them and then see where it takes us.

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"No-one inside the stadium will need to be reminded what a strong side PSG are of course. They are the champions of Europe, and they have this title for a reason. Last season we ran them incredibly close over two legs before losing on penalties and it was clear even at that stage that they were capable of going all the way in the competition.

"The same applies this time around but, again, we have the chance to create an atmosphere which makes this the kind of night that even teams with their reputation will not enjoy. If we do this, anything is possible.

"I would like to welcome Luis Enrique, his players and staff, and the directors and supporters of PSG to Anfield for tonight's game. I am sure they will arrive not only with hope, but also with confidence that they will progress to the next round. We respect that, given their quality and the advantage they have, but we also have to back ourselves.

"Aside from the game itself, tonight we will mark the 37th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster. While almost four decades have passed since the tragedy occurred, the players and myself are fully aware that so many people – bereaved families, survivors, Liverpool supporters in general and many others besides – continue to be affected by the terrible events of that day.

"Since becoming head coach, I have been able to hear some of their stories and the passage of time does not make them any less moving. I have also been told about the campaign for a Hillsborough Law and having listened to the reasons and knowing the story behind them, it surprises me that this is still to be introduced.

"This is not an opinion based on my association with Liverpool FC either. It is the view of someone who believes bereaved families should not have to fight and campaign for the truth about how their loved ones lost their lives; it should be provided as a matter of course.

"Tonight, we will remember the 97 and pay tribute to them, but it is clear that the best way for the country to honour them after all this time would be to introduce the law that the Hillsborough families and fellow campaigners are asking for."

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