Gerrard said: “We want to go for the jugular from the first whistle.
“We know we need a night like Juventus, like Chelsea and like Olympiakos.
“That was probably the last time we found ourselves in a similar position. Our backs were against the wall and unfortunately that’s where we are again — but we know we can do it.
“We have to give the fans something to get excited about and that’s the aim when the referee blows his whistle.
“Tonight is hugely important and we have to make a fast start to rock Besiktas early. I said two weeks ago we face three cup finals and I haven’t changed my position.”
Gerrard added: “I don’t think we have anything to fear from Besiktas. And it would be nice if we could send out a message to the rest of the teams in our group with a really strong result.
“When we get it right there are very few teams, if any, that can live with us and we have to get it right tonight.”
