The manager was speaking ahead of tomorrow's Champions League tie with Liverpool.

How do you look ahead to tomorrow?

It is always easier to play the second game against an opponent. Last week we needed to find more moments in the game when we were dangerous. Our approach will be different this time as we need points to hopefully play in Europe after the break. But, we are still going to be up against a very good side. We had some strong performances in Europe last season and even this season against Napoli. That was a good one against a very good side. We were in the game until the penalties and the red card. This is another chance for us to get points.

How can you ensure you play on the front foot?

It starts with your tactics, how you approach games and your intentions. We have been playing well in the league games and we need to take that form into this game. We need to attack but we need to defend well against a side that can do both. It will be a very hectic game as it always is when we play at home.

What did you learn about Liverpool last week?

They started with a different formation. They have some injuries at the moment so we will see how their line-up will be. They have world-class players so we have to be ready for their attacks. But, we have to be able to attack ourselves and do it more frequently than last week.

How is the squad?

The squad is looking good as we have no fresh injuries. The only one who is a little doubtful is Glen Kamara - everyone else is good to go.

How vital is it to start fast?

It’s always important because you want to start games on the front foot. That’s what we always do at home, especially in games where we need a good performance. The key for us is to start the game well and make sure we keep pressure on opponents and work hard as a team to create chances, score and at key moments defend as well.

How do you sum up the Champions League so far?

The results were not what we wanted. But we knew we were going to play against good opponents. I think we did really well against Napoli. It was not a performance that was really bad. Especially if you see their performance in Amsterdam where they beat Ajax 6-1. It is a team who are capable of performing really well away from home and I think that was our best game in Europe this season – until the red card. Tomorrow we have to have the same approach, the same performance and keep playing with eleven men. In Europe playing with 10 men is a really difficult task. So that is really important. We have respect for our opponents, but we want to continue in Europe after the break and it’s important to get points in the last three games.

Is this a chance to give fans a night to remember?

It’s a perfect time and we are going to work hard to achieve what we want. I think we are in a good moment, especially after the win at the weekend. We analysed the game last week and today we trained tactically and tomorrow we have to go out and enjoy being there. But to do that we have to get points because you are here to perform at the level you want and tomorrow is another chance to do so.

Is tomorrow a must-win to ensure European football after Christmas?

We need to get points. Ideally, three points and we have to see the other results. But we want to be able to proceed in Europe when we play our last game at home against Ajax. Hopefully, we are in a situation where, with a good result, we can continue in Europe. That means also we have to get points out of the next two games because Ajax are already on three points. In the last game away, it was a big difference. So we need to earn points in the coming games.

Can you play like you did against Napoli?

Oh, I think that’s very possible. It’s different when you play away from home because after two big defeats in the Champions League you don’t want to go to Anfield and open up spaces for Liverpool to exploit. You want to have good game management where in the second half you are able to be close to them and try to get something out of the game. Of course, it is possible tomorrow. I think we have the team to do so against a quality side. But we have to be really, really focused in the transition moments. We have to defend. It takes a lot of energy for my players to play in that way. And there are times when you have to defend. You see Liverpool also against Arsenal, at times they both had a low block to defend. Once you’re in moments when you can be dangerous, you have to be clinical and make sure you create chances but also score. In the away game, we had two big chances to score, which we didn’t. Those moments in the Champions League are very vital to get your goals.

How do you decide between Colak and Morelos?

They are both strikers, but their strengths and their way of playing are a bit different. They are both natural goalscorers, that’s for sure. So for me, it’s always a case of seeing what we need in games, who is in form, and who do we think will be the best option. That’s not only for the striker option but for the other 10 who are playing. I think it’s a normal process in the days prior to a game. Tomorrow, we are going to start with 11 players who I think are capable of getting a good result. I have made my decision, yes.

How hard is it going to be to leave one of the two out?

You pick your 11. You sometimes have players who need a one-on-one conversation. Sometimes you don’t because you concentrate on the first 11. I think it’s a normal process not only for the striker but also for the goalie, your defence and midfield. For me, it’s no problem. It’s about taking a decision together with your staff and then communicating it to the players. Prepare them for the task ahead - your tactics but also what we can expect from Liverpool. 

Is there any interest in Leon King?

You will see him tomorrow. I've not heard of any interest from down south. When you are performing well in Scotland you will get interest. Leon is a player who is developing really well. He played some games last year but we wanted to make space for him to get more minutes and when he is taking the minutes he is performing really well. He still has a lot to learn but he is open to coaching and putting the energy into work hard and better himself. I think his future is very bright but he needs to continue playing well and training well and we are helping him in that process. He is developing really well.

Where would a win against Liverpool rank?

Obviously, it would be a great win for us because we need the points. Of course, Liverpool, as I said last week, who have been three times to the Champions League final in the last five years. They have an excellent coach and a big squad, a squad that is very balanced even with the injuries they have now and they can field a really strong side. This is the first time we are playing against each other as teams but definitely, it would be a great win for us if we achieve that tomorrow. Our main focus is to get points. For us now that is very important for the remainder of the group stage and also the remainder of our European season.