Van Dijk urges Liverpool to remember their qualities ahead of Ajax visit

Virgil van Dijk urged Liverpool to remember “how good we are” as the Reds look to bounce back from a disappointing defeat at Nottingham Forest when they travel to Ajax on Wednesday.

Jurgen Klopp’s side recorded back-to-back Premier League wins over West Ham and the in-form Manchester City, but fell to a surprise 1-0 defeat at strugglers Forest on Saturday.

The narrow loss, in which Liverpool spurned numerous chances, summarised what has been an underwhelming season thus far for the Reds, who are eighth in the league and 12 points behind leaders Arsenal.

However, Liverpool could still secure Champions League knockout football with a game to spare if they avoid defeat at Ajax, with Van Dijk issuing a reminder to his team-mates over their qualities.

“What the manager said after the game, we only had ourselves to blame, we had the chances to score and another day they will go in,” the Netherlands international said. 

“It was a very intense and difficult week, with a fantastic win against City and a difficult one against West Ham. Then an away game, early kick-off against Forest, who were struggling before our game.

“We tried everything but we didn’t win; we know our performances, in general, have to be as consistent as they were [in previous seasons], that’s what we are trying to do.

“We are trying to sort it and do everything in our power, that’s what we have to do, so that’s our situation. We shouldn’t forget how good we are, keep the confidence and try to be consistent again.”

While Alfred Schreuder’s side dropped five points in two matches either side of the last international break, they have returned to form in recent weeks to open a four-point lead at the Eredivisie summit.

Van Dijk acknowledged the tough task that awaits Liverpool, who have won their last three Champions League matches against Ajax, as his side prepare to visit Amsterdam.

“They don’t have the best moment also, but I know how it can be here on a Champions League night and that is something we are prepared for,” the centre-back added.

“We have to match them and do even more – it will be interesting. We’re not coming here to defend or draw, we want to win the game, show our qualities and make sure we go through tomorrow.

“They will know how tough it will be, we have to be confident and enjoy the occasion. Everyone wants to be at this level.”