Virgil van Dijk addresses Liverpool form ahead of Nottingham Forest - 'We don't shy away'
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Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk's programme notes have been released for the big Premier League clash at home to Nottingham ForestVirgil van Dijk admits he's been wrestling with "mixed emotions" during the international break following Liverpool's 3-0 defeat at Manchester City. They've also witnessed their Carabao Cup ambitions ended by Crystal Palace and suffered defeat in the Champions League.That latter loss, 1-0 at Galatasaray, will not prove terminal, but the title holders possess virtually no room for mistakes if they wish to defend their domestic crown, starting with today's visit of Nottingham Forest to Anfield (3pm kick-off).READ MORE: Arne Slot admits Alexander Isak selection risk as his Liverpool 'problem' laid bareREAD MORE: Arne Slot gets Nottingham Forest warning as Liverpool boss challenged - 'You can't sugarcoat it'But before the afternoon to forget at the Etihad, Liverpool showed their class by beating Real Madrid 1-0 in the Champions League after producing a much-improved performance to see off Aston Villa 2-0 in the Premier League.Both opponents were dispatched at Anfield and Van Dijk drew encouragement from certain aspects he witnessed.
Nevertheless, the captain recognises that the Reds must delve deep as they confront their present predicament.Writing in his programme notes for the visit of Forest, Van Dijk said (via the Mirror): "We went into the recent international period with mixed emotions, I would say. We know that there is improvement to be found in our performance levels, and we know that the only way to find that improvement is through hard work and togetherness."I have said many times that I believe in the quality and the character of this squad, but we have to show it where it matters, which is out there on the field."We know what lies ahead over the next few months, but for now our focus must be on the next game only.
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