Paris Saint-Germain coach Thomas Tuchel believes that his players are aware of the "special" atmosphere that awaits him and his squad in Tuesday's Champions League Group C opener against Liverpool at Anfield.
Speaking at a prematch news conference, the German tactician recalled his experience of facing the Reds with Borussia Dortmund in a "legendary" Europa League clash back in 2016.
"Playing at Anfield is special," said Tuchel. "My players know that -- we know that we cannot switch off. I experienced the atmosphere during a legendary evening here with Dortmund."
Captain Thiago Silva echoed the former Dortmund and Mainz 05 boss' opinion and admitted that he and his teammates are hoping for a "boost" from the 2,500 PSG supporters in the away end in the face of a tough opener.
"I cannot wait to play this game in a great atmosphere," the Brazil international said. "We expect a blistering start, but we will give everything because we also know that we can count on our supporters to give us a boost."
Tuchel stood by his prematch opinion that PSG have lacked character over the past two seasons when going out to Barcelona and then Real Madrid, but also pointed to Liverpool's Champions League pedigree.
"I do think that PSG have lacked character and experience in each of their last two eliminations," said the 45-year-old. "Liverpool have already won five titles, so we are challengers in this competition and still learning."
On the topic of the Barca and Real defeats, Silva acknowledged them and played up their importance in Les Parisiens turning a corner in continental competition.
"We have had some significant setbacks in Europe," the 33-year-old said. "However, we have to remember the past to learn from it -- this is very important in football."
Asked whether he thought that Liverpool away has come too early for his team, Tuchel confessed that he would have liked more time with his players before facing such a challenge.
"This sort of game never comes too early," he said. "That said, I would have liked to have had more time with my squad.
"Also, up against Jurgen Klopp and at Anfield, you must be on your guard at all times."
Silva stressed the importance of making a good start in Group C -- something that history has taught the former AC Milan man and his teammates.
"We anticipate a big Champions League match," he said. "We know the importance of starting well in the group stage."
Legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has travelled to Liverpool with the PSG squad, despite his suspension at Anfield, while U.S. international Timothy Weah did not make the travelling party.