Jordan Henderson has warned that Liverpool will need to stand together through difficult moments in order to enjoy the 'special days' that come with winning trophies.
The Reds kick off the defence of their FA Cup this evening when they host Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield in the third round. Jurgen Klopp's side will need to see off five opponents in order to book a return to Wembley for the final on May 14 - a final that arguably presents their most realistic chance of domestic silverware this season.
Despite a mostly encouraging festive period - with wins against Aston Villa and Leicester City - Monday's defeat at Brentford saw many of the same problems resurface. Henderson was absent at the Gtech Community Stadium due to going through concussion protocols, but the Reds skipper has urged players and fans to learn from last season's lessons in standing together through difficult moments in order to reap the rewards come spring.
READ MORE: Liverpool transfer news LIVE - Moises Caicedo hope, Jude Bellingham boost, early team news
READ MORE: Liverpool line-ups for Wolves as Cody Gakpo and Ben Doak decisions made
"Concussion protocols meant I was not able to play at Brentford on Monday, but I was as disappointed as anyone with the performance and the result," Henderson wrote in his pre-match programme notes. "As captain, you always feel a responsibility whether you are on the pitch or not and this game was no different.
"To a man, we know we need to be better because we know that if we are not there are no shortage of teams who will take advantage. The good thing is we have an opportunity to strike back straightaway in front of our own fans tonight so it is up to us as individuals and as a team to make sure we do everything we possibly can to respond in the right way.
"If there was a positive on Monday night, it is that the response actually started in the second half. We need to take that character and determination into this tie because we are definitely going to need it and we are also going to have to build on it.
"One of the many lessons learnt from last season is that if we want to have special days in May, we are going to have to come through difficult moments earlier in the season. What happened at Brentford means we are in a difficult moment so it is up to us to find a way to get through it.
"Again, the best way of doing that is undoubtedly by standing together. This is what has given us incredible strength when we have needed it so we should not deviate from that approach now. If we can do that, you never know what might happen and you never know how far it might take us."
READ NEXT
Darwin Nunez could get just what he needs against Wolves to answer Liverpool critics
What Moises Caicedo has 'told friends' about potential Liverpool transfer
'I include myself' - Jurgen Klopp makes honest admission in Liverpool 'mood swings' warning
Harvey Elliott is being hindered by a major Liverpool transfer mistake
Julen Lopetegui confirms 'more problems' for Wolves as injury crisis deepens before Liverpool
