Dirk Kuyt will face former club Liverpool as interim boss of Fenerbahce in tonight's Champions League league phase clash. The Dutchman, who played for Liverpool between 2006 and 2012, took charge after Ismail Kartal resigned from the Fenerbahce post last week.
Kuyt's emotional return
Speaking in the pre-match press conference, Kuyt admitted he will need to keep his emotions in check for what he describes as a "special occasion". He said: "Of course, tomorrow will be a very special occasion for me but at the stage we're in, I'm not here for myself. I'm here for the club and that's what is important - to show the fans who deserve much more, a reaction, positive energy and a good performance."
Fenerbahce have struggled in this season's league phase, having been thumped 6-0 by Aston Villa on matchday two and drawing with Roma and Slavia Prague.
Liverpool's strong start
Liverpool, meanwhile, have won all three games in the league phase so far, scoring 12 goals but conceding seven. The Reds are seeking to bounce back from defeat to Arsenal at the weekend, though they can take confidence from the fact that they have won four of five away games across all competitions this season.
While Liverpool are no strangers to Turkey, particularly Istanbul, this will be the first-ever meeting with Fenerbahce at any level.
How to watch Fenerbahce vs Liverpool
TV channel: The game is available in the UK on TNT Sports 1, with coverage set to start at 5pm GMT ahead of the 5.45pm GMT kick-off.
Live stream: TNT subscribers can also stream the game live on the HBO Max app and website.
