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Cannavaro ready for Reds

Image: Cannavaro: Ready for Europa clash

Napoli captain Paolo Cannavaro is eagerly anticipating the Europa League clash with Liverpool on Thursday.

Defender hopes for big night in Naples

Napoli captain Paolo Cannavaro is eagerly anticipating the Europa League clash with Liverpool on Thursday night. The Premier League giants travel to Italy currently top of Group K with a win and a draw from their opening two games, while Napoli are second having managed two draws. Roy Hodgson's Reds are having a torrid time in the league and have recently made the headlines for all the wrong reasons after a drawn-out takeover saga. Cannavaro, 29, has warned his side not to underestimate their English opponents despite Liverpool lying second-bottom in the league, and the defender is looking forward to a massive night for the club. "It will be a historic match for Napoli. For years, San Paolo hasn't seen major events in Europe and on Thursday we all know how important it will be to be in top physical and mental condition," he told the club's official website. "We must not be fooled by the ranking of Liverpool in the Premier League. In the international arena they have enormous experience. They are one of the most successful clubs in the world and are accustomed to challenges at the highest level. "We need to play a perfect game. Liverpool know how to handle certain games and are used to the big stage. On the other hand we have a great opportunity and we will not give up to the end. "It will be a night of celebration but the euphoria shouldn't distract us - the noise of 60,000 people in San Paolo will support us and give us even more energy. "Going through in the Europa League would be a truly historic achievement for this club. Our fans know it and will push us with their immense passion." Napoli are currently fourth in Serie A and their next domestic outing comes when AC Milan travel south to San Paolo.

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