Dirk Kuyt says Liverpool can assure their Champions League progress with victory at Atletico Madrid tonight.

"If we get a win in Madrid it will take us a very big step closer to qualification for the next stage of the Champions League," said Kuyt, who has scored five goals this season including dramatic late winners against Manchester City and Wigan Athletic.

"This is the big one in our group - to win would be a very strong statement. We know Atletico are a very strong, tough side but it is another challenge and one I know we can rise to.

"It is the beginning of another vital week for us, firstly in Madrid and then at Chelsea on Sunday. Players can get tired with all the club matches and the internationals, but that is the way things are at the top.

"When you are with a big club you have to play in big matches every three or four days, but we prepare well. We drink and eat properly, we have our ice baths. We are professional and go to bed early."