Klopp Likes it “When Everyone Hates You”

In the first leg of Liverpool and Manchester United’s Europa League tie, United at times seemed overawed by the occasion and a very loud Anfield. In the second leg, it will be Liverpool having to contend with the crowd, and manager Jürgen Klopp says they’re ready for it.

"I like it, even when everyone hates you," said Klopp when asked about an Old Trafford crowd that should be fired up for Thursday night’s match, before adding that it will be up to Liverpool to quiet the crowd by playing well. "We will decide how good the atmosphere is with our performance."

United will have to push on to overcome a two goal deficit. If they can get a goal early, it will only fire up the fans more. If Liverpool can hit first on the counter, though, it could quickly quiet an Old Trafford that has at times appeared less than convinced by manager Louis van Gaal this season.

If Liverpool can handle any nerves and treat the crowd as background noise—as well as keeping cool if United come out fast and fired up at home—they will have chances to silence the home supporters and make it so that Liverpool’s 3000 travelling fans are the ones left making the noise.

"The performance is always part of the reason for the atmosphere," added the manager. "If we do our best it will be difficult for Man United to enjoy the game. We feel good in this moment. We know about the job we have to do. We have to forget we have a 2-0 lead and we need to play well again."