Liverpool: Klopps sets Europa League target ahead of LASK match

The Reds will play in the second-tier European competition for the first time since 2016.

Liverpool will not compete in the Europa League with their second-choice players, according to Jurgen Klopp.

The intensity of the football schedule in England often forces the Premier League sides to prioritise some competitions over others. For the five-time Champions League winners, Europa League is not a dream achievement. However, Klopp insists his side will push to win the trophy in Dublin next year.

“We are here to compete,” said Klopp. “Not to give opportunities. I know we are favourites but we are here to play football, we take this game seriously and we want to take the most of it.

“The stadium is wonderful, it opened in February, we are not arrogant but we want to compete and win here.”

Liverpool managed to reach the Europa League final in 2016, where they were defeated by Sevilla. But Klopp believes the Reds are now in a more favourable position to win the competition for the fourth time in their history.

“I don’t think we were exceptional that year,” the Liverpool manager admitted. “I would not compare it. We are better prepared. We enjoy it more to be here than we did that time. I am excited by the potential we have.

“It’s not about what we’ve got, but what we make of it. You can see the spirit – something is growing. The squad enjoys spending time together outside. We will use it, and channel it into the game.”