John Arne Riise has spelled out Liverpool's European task - no
more mistakes allowed.
The Norwegian defender will be part of the Champions League team to
face Besiktas in Istanbul tonight in a Group D clash vital to both
sides.
Liverpool have taken just one point from two previous group
matches, while the Turkish side have lost both their games.
Riise is well aware of the importance of a match Liverpool need to
win.
'We know what is at stake,' he confirmed.
'We have managed only one point so far in this group and that is
just not good enough.
'We have to take the three points and then beat Besiktas again when
they come to Anfield next time around. Then we will be back in with
a chance of qualifying.'
Riise believes Saturday's win at Everton could be the key to
Liverpool's season.
He said: 'That could be the turning point.
'We have had a few dips this season, dropped some points in Europe
and in the Premier League - and the win at Everton has given us
something to build on, something to be positive about.
'We have only four games left in this group now, so the time for
mistakes is over.
'We know we are not in the best position, and the home defeat by
Marseille has been very damaging. But we have come to Istanbul
before and produced great comebacks, so this is the time to do it
again.'
Riise has no doubts Liverpool are capable of far better than they
have recently shown.
'We were not at our best in Porto and then lost to Marseille, so we
really have to do something about it here. We know we have not been
at our best, so something has to change.'
Liverpool could have midfielder Xabi Alonso back in their side
after a broken metatarsal, although Fernando Torres did not travel
to Istanbul yesterday - having failed to convince the medical team
he is over his foot injury.
The Reds have youngster Jack Hobbs in the squad as cover at the
back, and there are suggestions that Dutch winger Ryan Babel will
get his chance to impress.
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez said: 'It was impossible for Fernando
to be here. He was not right, and we now must hope he will be fit
to face Arsenal at the weekend.
'We know Besiktas are a good team - but we also know we have to win
this game to keep our qualification aims on course.
'I have some good memories of Istanbul - winning the (2005)
Champions League here with Liverpool and also beating Besiktas in
the UEFA Cup when I was manager of Valencia. I would be happy with
a similar result this time around.'
