Pepe: Roar us through

Pepe Reina has urged Liverpool fans to crank up the volume inside Anfield tonight and roar the Reds into the Europa League quarter finals at Lille's expense.

The French side arrive in L4 holding a 1-0 advantage from the first leg last week, but Reina is confident a fervent Kop can play a key role in helping Rafael Benitez's men book a place in Friday's draw.

"All I hope and ask for is for Anfield to be behind us and the supporters to create a nice atmosphere because we will need them," said the goalkeeper.

"It's massively important, that's why I am asking for it.

"We know the fans will be behind us once again. All of us are asking the supporters to stay behind the team more than ever and support us from the beginning.

"The fans know it will make it much easier for us. The commitment, passion and desire to win the game will be much, much higher this way."

Liverpool head into tonight's encounter with confidence buoyed by Monday's impressive 4-1 demolition of Portsmouth.

Reina acknowledges the comprehensive manner of the victory over Pompey has lifted morale in the Reds camp, though he is well aware Lille will pose a difficult proposition following a tricky first leg in France.

He said: "A win is a win. Of course, when you win 4-1 at home in front of your supporters it's even better, but we know the Europa League is another competition against a different rival and it will be tough.

"Of course it is a lift (to beat Portsmouth), but it will be difficult."

He added: "We have always had belief. We know we can play good football.

"European football is something we like. Unfortunately we were knocked out of the Champions League, but we still have really good hopes in the Europa League.

"It is the last option we have to lift a trophy this season - that's why it is so important and it is massive for us."

A trip to Old Trafford to tackle Manchester United follows hot on the heels of the Lille clash - though Reina insists no-one at Melwood is looking beyond this evening's encounter.

"First we will focus on the Lille game," he said. "Sunday is a massive game for us and our supporters, but first is Lille and we know they will be really tough. 

"Our only concern now is to try and beat Lille and stay as fit as possible for Manchester United."

Video: Pepe on Lille clash>>