Captain Virgil van Dijk says his Liverpool team-mates understand the rivalry with Manchester United and admits matches against the Red Devils at Anfield carry “that little bit of extra meaning for the fans”.
Liverpool are currently enjoying an impressive debut season for Arne Slott. Slot's side sit top of the Premier League and have a chance to move eight points clear with a game in hand when they host United on Sunday.
In contrast, their fierce rivals, under new coach Ruben Amorim, have continued to struggle this season. Despite their win over Manchester City, United have lost their last three league games without scoring and conceding seven goals in the process.
United currently sit 14th in the table, with Amorim recently admitting his side were in a battle to avoid relegation.
The skipper #leafmon Program notes 🔴
Virgil van Dijk explains the additional importance of tomorrow's meeting with Manchester United ✊
– Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 4, 2025
However, in his notes for the match's official tour programme, the Dutchman said he expects a tough test at Anfield and recognizes the added importance of the match.
“Every game is big when you play for this club,” Van Dijk wrote. “But of course the match at Anfield against United has a little extra meaning for the fans.
“We understand this rivalry and know there will be a special atmosphere, which we will look to use to our advantage as we chase the three points.
“Make no mistake, this will be a tough test. We know that United are not where they want to be in the league table and that the start of the season has been difficult, but they still have top players so it is important that we are ready for that and focused from the start.” Whistle. “
The Reds captain also spoke about a strong first half of the season, but insists there is still work to do.
“We know what success is built on. Quality for sure, but also humility, sacrifice, work ethic and teamwork. If we always keep that at the front of our minds, those are the things that will take us where we want to be.
“The platform we have given ourselves throughout the first months of the season is clear, but we have to move forward from here now.
“We're not looking at the league table or counting the points we haven't won yet. We're just focusing on the next game, the next challenge. Consistency is key, day after day and game after game.
