‘I was at Liverpool’s defeat and could not believe what one star said’ | Football | Sport

Daniel Sturridge, on punditry duty in Istanbul, was left stunned after Ilkay Gundogan revealed that a Liverpool player was taken aback by the atmosphere against Galatasaray. The Turkish side secured a 1-0 victory after Victor Osimhen’s penalty handed Arne Slot’s men consecutive defeats.

The former Reds striker couldn’t hide his astonishment after the ex-Manchester City midfielder disclosed that one of his rivals approached him to enquire whether the atmosphere was consistently that intense at RAMS Park. Liverpool were disappointing once more as they squandered their early opportunities and found themselves trailing following the Nigerian striker’s spot-kick within 20 minutes.

Slot continues to grapple with fresh and ongoing issues with the Dutchman experiencing his most challenging period since replacing Jurgen Klopp.

It transpired during the post-match interviews that one of the Liverpool stars was, apparently, overwhelmed by the atmosphere in Istanbul.

Gundogan disclosed: “This club is not just special to me but I feel like it’s special to so many, the size and potential is incredible.

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“If you were here tonight and seen the atmosphere… actually, one of my opponents came to me in the game and asked me if the atmosphere is always incredible like that, during the game, yeah.

“You can see even for them it was incredible to play in front of that crowd. It’s something when you get that connection and the performance mirrors the people in the stand, you can get these special nights.”

Amazon Prime Sport presenter Gabby Logan spotted a puzzled expression on the face of Sturridge, who clinched the Premier League title with Liverpool in 2019.

He insisted that players should not let their surroundings distract them, no matter where they are playing. The 36-year-old stated: “I mean, I’m surprised. I didn’t expect a player to ask someone that.

“Do whatever you want to do, whatever vibe you’re on. Anfield has a great atmosphere on Champions League nights, this was special don’t get me wrong but just lock in man.

“Asking players questions about the atmosphere in the game is surprising but just stay locked in.”