Liverpool players Jordan Henderson (captain) and James Milner were present at the clubs pre-Europa League final press conference today. They answered the press' questions about tomorrow night's game against Sevilla in Basel.
Henderson when asked about his injury:
“The injury is good. I've progressed really well, trained and managed to play 25-30 mins. I feel good, and will play as long as the boss wants me to.”
What would a trophy mean?
“It’l be huge for the team, fans, club, its a big night but one we are very excited by. Big opportunity to win a trophy and we will focus on that, we’re more than capable of doing that.”
Milner on the importance of Champions League football:
“It’s a nice bonus, but I can honestly say we havent thought about it much. We’ve beaten some good teams on the way, and the only aim on our mind is winning that trophy and adding to the great history of this club.”
Henderson on importance of playing in a final:
“Its what you dream of as a young boy playing on the street - cup finals, European finals, it’s a huge night for everyone involved.”
Milner on the same question:
“You play football to be involved in the biggest games. This is obviously a massive tournament, and we want to finish the job. It’s about looking back at the end of your career and knowing that youve won trophies.”
Milner when asked if this was why he joined Liverpool:
“Yeah definitely. I had a tough decision to make last year. I was in a fortunate position whatever i decided to do, but I have thoroughly enjoyed my first season at a massive club that wins trophies. Been to two finals, lost one but hopefully we can turn that round in this one. It’d be the first trophy of many as a squad and with this manager.”
Milner when asked if trophies overshadowed by top four:
“You could be right. So much is put on top four. Everyone wants to play in CL, but if you look back on career with no trophies and only six seasons in CL, it’s not the same. You want trophies.
“Some of the ties we have had this season would have looked at home in the CL! We’ve had some good performances, so would be a shame to waste those.”
Henderson on whether he knows if he is playing or not:
“No. We don’t know yet! Probably find out a few hours before the game. No hints! I don’t expect to start. I’ve been out a long time. I’ve only played 30 mins, and the team has done very well to reach the final. But at the same time I feel good. I hope I’ve been ok in training, and I’m ready to play as long or as little as the manager wants!”
Henderson on Klopp and progress:
“Massive really. From the start of the season, the manager has put a spirit, belief, mentality through players and the whole club. That’s built the whole time he’s been here, we’ve gone up a level. Hopefully we can perform like we have done and if we do, I’m very confident.”
Source: transfermarketweb.com