Gerrard expecting UEFA triumph

Last updated : 27 November 2003 By Chris Maxwell
The all-action midfielder expects a rousing Anfield atmosphere to help Gerard Houllier's men to claim an all-important place in the third round of a competition Liverpool held aloft just over two years ago.

Gerrard said: "It was impossible to play decent football on that pitch for the first leg which was the same for both teams, but it should be a great attacking game of football at Anfield.

"Steaua Bucharest are a very good footballing side and have some gifted players with good technique and skill. They don't sit back and defend as they play attacking football and have players who can threaten you. Raducanu scores goals and is a threat but I'm sure they will look at our squad and be thinking 'they are not bad'.

"I am very confident we will qualify for the next round of the UEFA Cup. European games at Anfield are always very special and the players are all looking forward to it.

"There will be a full house at Anfield with the fans behind us and we are confident we will win.

"The UEFA Cup is a very special competition and as Liverpool captain it would be nice to guide the team all the way to the final."

Will we beat Steaua Bucharest?