Match'We know how important this time of the year is' - Virgil van Dijk's Fulham programme notes

The Reds host Marco Silva’s team at Anfield in a 3pm GMT kick-off looking to consolidate their position as Premier League leaders.

Arne Slot’s side dropped points in their last top-flight outing, a 3-3 draw at Newcastle United, and Van Dijk has no doubt that this afternoon’s opponents will also provide a stern test.

“After a couple of games away from home, plus the cancellation of last weekend’s Merseyside derby, we are looking forward to returning to Anfield this weekend,” the captain writes, in his notes for the official matchday programme.

“We know how important this time of year is. It is a really intense period, where each and every game requires maximum focus and maximum attention.

“Fulham will be no different. They are a team that can cause anybody problems, as we saw last weekend when they played really well against Arsenal. They have good players, a good coach and they always play with a lot of confidence and belief.

“We know that from last season. We played against them four times and every single one of those games was close. We know we will have to work extremely hard today if we are to pick up the three points.”

Earlier this week, Van Dijk was included in the 2024 FIFPRO Men’s World11 – the fourth occasion he has been voted into the team by his peers.

The Liverpool and Netherlands skipper adds: “It was an honour for me to be named in the FIFPRO Men’s World11 earlier this week, alongside some of the game’s finest players.

“To be recognised by your peers is always special, and I am extremely proud to have received such a nomination for the fourth time in my career.

“However, I always say that individual recognition comes only when you are part of a successful team, and so I would like to pay tribute to my teammates, my coaches and to both Jürgen Klopp and Arne Slot, who have helped me to perform at a strong level over the past 12 months.

“Long may that continue!”

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