Programme notesVirgil van Dijk: We're enjoying the ride - but maintaining consistency is key
Virgil van Dijk is enjoying the journey Liverpool are on this season but knows it will only end successfully if current standards are maintained.
The Reds switch their focus back to Premier League matters after clinching a spot in the last 16 of the Champions League with a game to spare by beating Lille on Tuesday.
Ipswich Town are the visitors to Anfield today for a 3pm GMT kick-off as Arne Slot's men look to further consolidate their position at the top of the standings.
In his captain's column in the matchday programme, Van Dijk writes: "I said after the game on Tuesday that when I look around the squad I see calmness and I see focus.
"We are all working our socks off every single day and we are approaching each game with the right mindset. We know we are in a good position and our form is good, but we also know how many big challenges are ahead of us, and the moment you lose sight of that fact is the moment you come unstuck.
"Everyone in the dressing room knows what it takes to be successful. Many of us have won big trophies – either with Liverpool, with other clubs or at international level – and the majority of us went through the challenges of last season, so we can draw on that experience and be better equipped to deal with certain situations and circumstances.
"I think I speak for everyone when I say that along with knowing the importance of each game and each training and recovery session, we are also enjoying the ride. I know I am, and that is an important part of competing for big things. You have to embrace the challenges.
"I have been asked a few times about whether we have surprised ourselves with how we have performed so far this season. Of course, I have always known the quality we have in this squad – we proved it last season, even if we didn't have all the success we wanted – but nothing is won in January.
"The key for us is that we try to stay fit and healthy, keep listening to the head coach and his staff, and maintain that consistency. If we do that, then the ride will continue to be enjoyable, both for ourselves and for you guys too."
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