Battle the whole of Manchester? BRING IT ON
LIVERPOOL
Jurgen Klopp’s quest to end Anfield’s 29-year wait for the title faces its toughest test when the Merseysiders meet their biggest rivals knowing a point will take them back to the top of the table. Henderson views the clash as an opportunity for Liverpool to deliver a huge statement of intent.
But the Kop captain is aware United’s determination to prevent the Reds becoming champions – allied to City’s bid to defend the title they won last season – makes this a unique trip into enemy territory.
Henderson said: “Everybody in Manchester will be against us when we play – but it won’t alter our mindset.
“It’s something we have to get used to. We have to go there with the same mentality we always have, try to put on the best performance we can and the result will take care of itself.
“If we perform to the best of our ability and do what we have prepared ourselves to do, then it gives us the best chance of winning the game.
“Of course, in football it doesn’t always happen like that. In big games, it is often one decision that goes for or against you. The line between success and failure is very fine.
“So we must control the things we can control – like our attitude.”
Five years ago, Henderson was part of the Liverpool team that collapsed in the final week of the season to hand City the title.
Brendan Rodgers’ team relied heavily on the brilliance of Steven Gerrard and Luis Suarez. But Gerrard’s slip against Chelsea at Anfield allowed City to snatch the Premier League and leave Suarez in tears.
Henderson insists Klopp’s team have much stronger foundations.
He said: “I learned a lot back then, but we learned a lot as a team last season as well, when we reached the Champions League final and finished in the top four. We have gone through moments as a team and grown with experience.
“Hopefully we can use that on Sunday.
“The squad is very good now – the depth especially. We have injuries but big players are coming back for us and that’s a big plus.
“Every game until the end of the season will be massive.”
Liverpool had the chance to go 10 points clear when they last visited Manchester. But they lost 2-1 to City at the Etihad – and Pep Guardiola’s men are now top on goal difference having played a game more. Liverpool’s Champions League bid also suffered a huge blow when they were held to a goalless home draw by Bayern Munich on Tuesday.
But Henderson said: “The big games are coming thick and fast – but we are ready for it. I think the performance was good against Bayern.
“We were disappointed not to get the goal our play might have earned in the first half, but you’ve got to take the result and move on.
“Beating United would be a massive three points for us – and that is our aim.
“If we have the right attitude I am confident we will get something.”