Andy Robertson admits Liverpool will have to be more alert to Atletico Madrid's spoiling tactics when the sides meet again next month.

The Reds will need to overturn a 1-0 aggregate deficit at Anfield after a frustrating first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium.

The holders were stung by a fourth-minute goal from Saul Niguez and – despite dominating possession – were unable to respond as the Spanish side got players behind the ball and sat back.

These defensive tactics were stifling for both Liverpool and the contest as a spectacle but the visitors' real irritation came from Atletico's apparent gamesmanship.

"We need to be a bit more savvy next time and hopefully the referee can see through it as well. Then hopefully the Anfield noise can get behind us and guide us to victory."

Liverpool now want their fans to emulate their Atletico counterparts and create a ferocious atmosphere in the second leg.

Anfield has played host to many glorious European nights, the greatest of which arguably came in last year's semi-finals as the Merseysiders memorably turned a 3-0 first-leg loss to Barcelona into a 4-3 aggregate win.

With fans currently in buoyant mood as Liverpool power towards the Premier League title, there seems little doubt there will be a vibrant atmosphere, but Robertson admits the players must do their part.

"I think their fans had an effect on some decisions, so who says our fans can't do the same?"

The final whistle sparked jubilant Atletico celebrations that included a lap of honour.

Some thought that seemed premature, but Robertson felt they owed that to their fans.

He said: "Maybe they appreciate the fans more than the result, because the fans were top for them.

"Fair play, they've won the game, but they've not won the tie yet."