Coronavirus: Playing without fans unfortunate but we are focused - Partey

Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey says Atlético Madrid are confident of qualifying to the next round of the UEFA Champions League at the expense of Liverpool even if they play behind closed doors.

The spread of the coronavirus has led to European leagues holding games behind closed doors including some UEFA Champions League games.

LaLiga announced on Tuesday that the next two matchdays in Spain will be played in front of empty stands.

"As a player it is nice to play with fans, but if it is behind closed doors and it helps to lower the risk, we don't care," Thomas said.

"We have to concentrate on our work.

"[Playing behind closed doors] does not depend on the players, but on the organisers.

"I am trying to help my team."

Atletico have travelled to Liverpool, where they will face the Reds in the second leg of their Champions League last-16 tie, where they have a 1-0 lead.

"We are prepared," Thomas continued.

"It is a dream for me to play against [Liverpool] at their stadium.

"I hope it stays forever in my career.

"[Liverpool] are doing well.

"We have to be focused one hundred per cent.

"We know it will be difficult."