Captain Virgil van Dijk says his Liverpool teammates understand the rivalry with Manchester United and admits games against the Red Devils at Anfield hold “that little bit of extra meaning for supporters”.
Liverpool are currently enjoying an impressive in Arne Slot’s first season in charge. Slot’s side sit top of the Premier League and have the chance to go eight points clear with a game in hand when they host United on Sunday.
By contrast, their fierce rivals, under new boss Ruben Amorim, have continued to struggle this term. Despite beating Manchester City, United have lost their last three league games on the bounce without scoring and conceding seven in the process.
United are currently 14th in the table, with Amorim admitting recently his team were in a battle to avoid relegation.
The skipper’s #LIVMUN programme notes 🔴
Virgil van Dijk details the added significance of tomorrow’s meeting with Manchester United ✊
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 4, 2025
But, in his notes for the official matchday programme, the Dutchman said he is expecting a tough test at Anfield and recognises the added significance of the fixture.
“Every game is big when you play for this club,” Van Dijk wrote. “But of course a game at Anfield against United has that little bit of extra meaning for supporters.
“We understand this rivalry and we know that there will be a special atmosphere, one we will look to use to our advantage as we go after the three points.
“Make no mistake, this will be a tough test. We know that United aren’t where they would like to be in the league table and that they have had a difficult start to the season, but they still have top players so it is important that we are on it and focused from the very first whistle.”
The Reds skipper also reflected on a strong first half of the campaign, but insists there is still work to be done.
“We know what success is built on. Quality for sure, but also humility, sacrifice, work ethic and togetherness. If we keep that at the front of our minds always, then those are the things that will take us to where we want to be.
“The platform we have given ourselves throughout the opening months of the season is clear, but we have to push on from here now.
“We are not looking at the league table or counting points we haven’t won yet. We are focused only on the next game, the next challenge. Consistency is key, day to day and game to game.”
