'Liverpool lull temporary'

Moscow - Anzhi wingback Yuri Zhirkov insists Liverpool’s mediocre run of form is temporary and expects an onslaught in their Europa Football League clash here on Thursday.

The Reds are 12th in the English Premier League, already trailing leaders Manchester United by 13 points after their worst-ever start to a season.

But ex-Chelsea man Zhirkov warns last month’s 0-1 defeat to Brendan Rodgers’ side at Anfield could repeat itself if the Russian Premier League leaders start to believe they have the upper hand.

“This club is from the elite of the English championship. Maybe they’re in a temporary lull, like everyone has, but they’re a serious side,” said Zhirkov, who played all 90 minutes in Liverpool.

“The British always put everything into it. Whatever competition you’re talking about, including the FA Cup and League Cup, they go out and fight for the full 90 minutes.”

A win for Anzhi will see Guus Hiddink’s men overtake Liverpool to head Group A; as it stands they are two points behind. Anything less than a win could see Udinese or Young Boys take second place.

The Reds arrive in Moscow later Wednesday after a morning training session in Merseyside.