Liverpool ‘the perfect game for us’ – Hugo Lloris

Hugo Lloris is targeting a strong finish to the season - and feels Sunday’s cracker at Liverpool provides the perfect opportunity to kick-start ‘the final sprint’.

The skipper joined his team-mates for a first training session at our magnificent new stadium earlier this week. Back from international duty, preparations for the squad began in earnest for the trip to Anfield - our first match since 9 March.

It may have been 20 days ago, but defeat last time out at St Mary’s is still fresh in the memory.

“We cannot forget that and we need to use it as motivation,” said Hugo, taking in his new surroundings. “We had a good four or five days away in Barcelona, most of the players were involved with their national teams and now it’s the final sprint.

“We are in a good situation, but we cannot drop points like that (Southampton) anymore. It’s very important to finish the season strongly. We need to give our best to finish as high as we can.

“We are still third and it’s up to us. It’s the same for the other teams involved. Okay, Liverpool and City look like they are going to fight for the title but behind them, it’s four teams challenging for two places.

“Liverpool are a fantastic team, even more at home so it’s going to be a big, big fight, a big battle and the guys will be ready to compete, then we will see what will happen. I think it’s the perfect game for us to bounce back.”