5:31 AM | 
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Leonardo
 | Albert Riera believes Liverpool's team unity can negate the influence of Atletico Madrid's potential match winners in the Vicente Calderon this evening. |
| Riera admits the La Liga side can boast exceptional talents in the shape of Aguero, Simao, Forlan and Maniche - not to mention ex-Red Luis Garcia - but he is confident the strength of character shown by Liverpool during their unbeaten start to the season can help take them a step nearer qualification from Group D tonight. "Atletico have come into their own and established themselves as one of the biggest clubs in Spain," said Riera. "They are much more competitive, and when you feel you can compete against even the best teams, it works wonders for your confidence. "Where they differ from us is that they rely more on individuals than the overall team pattern. They are beginning to shape into an effective unit, but it is individual brilliance that has contributed most to their success. "While they rely on individuals to a great extent, we are a real unit. We have outstanding individuals as well, but, first and foremost, we are a team. You can't underestimate the importance of that, and it has stood us in good stead. "Atletico are a real threat going forward and have probably the two best strikers in La Liga in Sergio Aguero and Diego Forlan. "They are much stronger at the back now, but I still feel our team spirit can come through and help us beat them." No English side has ever won at the Vicente Calderon and Riera admits the Reds will need to be on top of their game to alter that statistic. "The atmosphere will be exceptional, and it is going to be a really special occasion for the Spanish players in our squad," he added. "All of us are really looking forward to it, and we don't intend coming away with anything less than three points. "You've got to give Atletico credit for emerging as a force in their own right after spending so long in Real's shadow. It is not easy when you are in a big city and your club plays second fiddle to your near rivals. "I know what it is like after playing for Espanyol in a city that was really all about Barcelona. People don't take much notice of you, but they are paying attention to Atletico now." | |
Paul Eaton 22 October 2008
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