Liverpool return to the Champions League after a two-year absence,
Facing a Monaco, a side who almost won the competition last season.
Coach Rafael Benitez views Liverpool as a club in transition but given their European tradition, but he is aware that the pressure to succeed at the highest level is always a factor at Anfield.
“The expectations here are very high that we can do very well,” said defender Sami Hyypia “The Champions League is the place to be and we have really missed it.
“The match against Monaco will be completely different to any of the league games we have played and it will be interesting to see what kind of game they play, whether they play to draw or win.”
Liverpool will field a five-man midfield then, with Spaniard Luis García supporting sole striker Djibril Cisse.
Much has changed at Monaco since their surprise appearance in last season’s Champions League final.
Fernando Morientes, Ludovic Giuly and Jerome Rothen have left, to be replaced by Javier Chevanton, Mohamed Kallon and Javier Saviola.
