Gus Poyet knows Brighton will have to be at their best to stand any chance of knocking Liverpool out of the FA Cup.
But Brighton boss urges players to treat Anfield with no fear
Gus Poyet knows Brighton will have to be at their best to stand any chance of knocking Liverpool out of the FA Cup.
The Seagulls were rewarded for upsetting Premier League side Newcastle at the Amex Stadium in January with a trip to Merseyside in the FA Cup fifth round.
It will be the second time this season that Brighton have come head-to-head with Kenny Dalglish's side after goals from Craig Bellamy and Dirk Kuyt sent Poyet's side crashing out of the Carling Cup in September.
Poyet appreciates the uphill task that faces his players at Anfield, but has urged them to play without fear.
"The players know what they need to do in order to be competitive, because we have already played them this season," the Seagulls boss told his club's
official website.
"They know how they need to defend, they know how strong Liverpool are and they also know their quality in movement, speed and technical ability.
Experience
"We need to be at our best to have any chance. We know that we have no pressure at all but, at the same time, we really respect Liverpool.
"It will be a great experience and very unique for a few players who might never get this opportunity again.
"If we are average and they are at their best we will have no chance. In some respects it's an easy game for us because we don't have a lot of pressure compared to other games this season, and it will be a pleasure to be managing the team whatever the outcome."
Having played both the Magpies and Sunday's opponents on home soil, the trip to Anfield provides a huge occasion for the confident Championship outfit, who are unbeaten in seven league matches.
And Poyet believes the chance to play at a top Premier League stadium is the perfect incentive for his team to put in an eye-catching showing.
"The players will not need any motivation at all because as soon as they start their warm-up and see the fans they will be flying," the Uruguayan added.
"It's an absolutely beautiful place to play football, because of the history, the Liverpool fans and that Kop end, which is amazing."
