Virgil van Dijk is happy that he has reached his desired level at Liverpool again. The captain will face off with his team against league leaders Manchester City on Saturday.
Embed from Getty Images
"Last season there were ups and downs, with good games and less good games," said Van Dijk to British media. "I've always had a very high baseline and that's still the case. That's something I created myself and I enjoy that. But if I don't reach that basic level, then something is wrong."
Liverpool's last season was disappointing, and Van Dijk's performances were somewhat below par, especially compared to a few good seasons before. "But I feel like I am physically and mentally in a good phase and that I am important to the team. I just feel very good and I want to continue," said the captain.
Feeling
"For me, the most important thing is how I feel, how my teammates think of me and especially the manager. All the noise from outside, whether it's very good or very bad, you can't do anything with it."
Van Dijk succeeded Jordan Henderson, who left for Saudi Arabia in the summer, as captain. "What I strive for every game, but also the entire season, is consistency. That the team can always rely on me to a certain level and this year definitely off the field with the captain's armband. The captaincy is something I enjoy and am still learning in. I'm not perfect, but I do it my way and enjoy the challenge."
Liverpool has 27 points after twelve matches. League leaders City have one point more.
Updated: 03:29, 24 Nov 2023
