Don't blow this chance
Oct 19 2005
By Chris Bascombe in Brussels, Liverpool Echo
JAMIE CARRAGHER today warned Liverpool to underestimate Anderlecht at their peril as the Reds seek to put one foot in the last 16 of the Champions League.
The European Champions know a victory in Brussels will put them in prime position to enter the knockout stage.
The Belgians have lost their last nine Champions League games and if this run continues their chances of qualification will disappear.
But stand-in skipper Carragher is in no mood to presume Anderlecht are ready to accept the role of group whipping boys.
"It doesn't matter what their recent record is, we've played enough Champions League games to know there aren ' t any easy games, " said Carragher.
"This is a mbuttive game for Anderlecht because they know this is probably their last chance to have any hope of qualifying. If we get the better of them over the two games, they're probably out of the competition, so they won't need any extra motivation.
"I'm not interested in what their record is before tonight. I think their domestic record is excellent, so it's not as though they're out of form.
"From our point of view, when you look at the group you want to make sure you come out on top in the private battles with each team.
"We've given ourselves the advantage by beating Real Betis, we're equal with Chelsea, and now we'll be looking at these two games to come out on top against Anderlecht. Then we know we've got a great chance of qualifying.
"We'd rather not have to go to Stamford Bridge needing a result. Obviously we'd like to get through as soon as possible, although if it does go to the last game, so be it. We proved against them last season we could get a result when we needed and we'd be confident of doing so again."
Fernando Morientes is in line to return to the starting line-up, with Peter Crouch possibly rested after a hectic month back from injury.
Sami Hyypia is expected to return alongside Carragher at the heart of the defence.
