Two weeks ago Roy Hodgson took a weakened side to the Stadio San Paolo and earned a creditable goalless draw. However, Napoli coach Walter Mazzari believes Liverpool will pose a much greater threat at Anfield when the sides next meet.

Hodgson has promised to field a stronger team for the home clash in Group K of the UEFA Europa League and Mazzari expects a more difficult challenge. "Playing Liverpool means a great deal. We're at Anfield now in a stadium full of history and it is a source of great pride for our team just to be here," said the Napoli boss.

"It is one thing to say we are equipped to deal with Liverpool but another thing to actually do it. We need to be extremely focused, concentrate on our own game and also try to restrict the great players we will be up against tomorrow. I think the fact they came to San Paolo and adopted a cautious approach suggests they were a little bit worried, and so maybe we are starting to build a reputation in Europe."

It is one thing to say we are equipped to deal with Liverpool but another thing to actually do it.
Walter Mazzari, Napoli coach

Since the two clubs drew 0-0 in Naples a fortnight ago Liverpool have received a boost, winning consecutive Premier League matches. Napoli, currently sitting in fifth place on the Serie A table, lost at home to AC Milan immediately after facing Hodgson's side but bounced back on Sunday with a 1-0 win at Brescia. They have lost only one of their last five away matches in Europe but have drawn all three of their UEFA Europa League Group K games.

Mazzari accepts that his team needs to win, and soon, if they plan to progress in the competition. "We have played three games and got three draws. If we do well then that gives us a lot of confidence but, regardless of the result, we are going to have to try to move on in the next two matches. It would appear Liverpool have got back some of their better players and are in good form so we know we will have to put in a good performance."

Slovakia midfielder Marek Hamsik has been linked with a move to the Premier League but dismissed suggestions that tomorrow was a chance for him to showcase his qualities to a number of suitors expected to be in the crowd.

"This isn't really about individuals, it is about the group and it is an important game for Napoli," said the 23-year-old. "I know the Premier League is a great league and has a wonderful atmosphere. At the moment there are rumours and that is all. I'm quite relaxed about the situation and I just want to play well for Napoli."