Liverpool fans on the road: “It’s like traveling with your own family”

Chants about Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah, the “Egyptian King” and coach Jürgen Klopp can be heard from afar. In Linz’s Domgasse, the fans of the 19-time English champions have already gathered in front of “King Kenny’s Pub” (known as the “Chelsea Pub” on any other day) at lunchtime before the Europa League game against LASK. We get in the mood for the game together and drink a pint or two.

Among them was 59-year-old Iain Mackintosh from Inverness, Scotland. Being away with the Reds is everyday life for him. “I haven’t missed a game since 2005, whether at Anfield or away,” says Mackintosh, who has had a season ticket to Anfield’s legendary stand, The Kop, since 1978. “We go anywhere for Liverpool.”

“We” means Mackintosh’s entire Reds squad. Close friendships have developed over the years on away trips. He met Medwyn Hughes, who is sitting next to him, in front of the Camp Nou during a Champions League game against FC Barcelona in 2007. “It’s like traveling with your family,” says Hughes.

From the North Cape via Linz to Liverpool

Knut Hurthi and Rune Johansen probably have the longest journey to witness today’s game. The two started their journey in Hammerfest, right on the Arctic Sea, one of the northernmost points on the Norwegian mainland. “We arrived in Linz yesterday evening,” says Hurthi. They’ll both get back on the plane tomorrow morning. However, not back to the North Cape, but to Liverpool. The league game against West Ham United is scheduled there on Sunday.