PUNCHER REPAIR KIT

Jab threat puts Reds on right track

- CHRIS MCKENNA

IT was a message to draw a line under last season which was delivered with a bit of punch - or a joke about receiving one.

Liverpool assistant boss Pep Lijnders has revealed how the Reds reinvigorated their manager and their squad in the summer by banning negativity and training three times a day in pre-season.

It has led the Merseysiders to go from failing to qualify for the Champions League and falling short in the cup competitions to one going for four trophies this season.

Liverpool take on Fulham tonight in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semifinal with a place in the FA Cup fourth round secured after their weekend win over Arsenal.

They are top of the Premier League and they are favourites for the Europa League with a last-16 tie in March.