Ian Rush knows all too well the power and influence the Kop can have on those playing in red below it, having walked out to its noise countless times during his playing days.

Now, as a club ambassador, Rushie is a regular at Anfield cheering on the Reds from the stands.

Ahead of Sunday's Barclays Premier League clash with Manchester City, the Welsh hero believes the crowd will once again inspire a performance from Brendan Rodgers' men.

And the club's all-time greatest goalscorer believes a special moment in the last home game against Tottenham Hotspur emphasises why.

Rush told Liverpoolfc.com: "We know that down the years there have been some great European nights at Anfield, but I noticed something against Tottenham recently.

"The atmosphere at the start of the game and during the match was brilliant, helping us win 4-0, but at the end no-one left and the biggest cheer came when the players applauded the supporters.

"It was an incredible moment and the fans' way of telling the players to believe, because they do. I've always said that the Kop can be that 12th man and can make the difference in games, which is exactly what they'll look to do on Sunday.

"As a player, when you feel that support it makes you want to give a little bit extra. When you're warming up you're looking round and seeing what it means to the people.

"The players will have to hold their nerve, but those like Stevie and Luis will help do that whilst the younger lads like Flanagan and Sterling will experience something new and in years to come hopefully come to expect it in every game."