Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has called upon the club’s supporters to create an intimidating atmosphere at Anfield as the team pushes towards Premier League glory.
A crucial 2-0 victory over reigning champions Manchester City at the Etihad on Sunday, courtesy of goals from Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai, has propelled Liverpool 11 points clear at the summit.
While second-placed Arsenal still have a game in hand, the Merseyside giants are now firm favourites to reclaim the title.
One key advantage in Liverpool’s favour is their remaining fixture list – seven of their final 11 league matches will be played at Anfield, a venue renowned for its electric atmosphere.
Van Dijk has urged the club’s fans to harness that energy and turn their home stadium into a daunting prospect for visiting teams.
Speaking after the win over City, Van Dijk said: “I mentioned it after that [Wolves] game, that obviously it’s pretty normal to be [nervous] like that,” he said.
“It is a human [reaction] that there could be some anxious feelings kicking in, and that could still be the case.
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“But I think it only helps us and them [the supporters] as well to make Anfield horrible for the opponent. Most of the time we have been doing that, and obviously, the way we play helps with that as well.
“How many home games are left? Seven out of 11. So let’s make sure those seven are going to be amazing, as loud as possible. I don’t think we have to speak about it because normally that is the case.
“So let’s go, enjoy, focus on Wednesday now, and then we’ll see what happens after.”
The triumph against City was particularly significant as it marked Liverpool’s first Premier League win at the Etihad Stadium in ten years.
The result capped a challenging stretch of four games in just 15 days, with the Reds now set to host Newcastle at Anfield on Wednesday night.
“This was a big win,” he said. “I told the guys, ‘Don’t take these wins for granted, but when you go home, recover and be ready for the preparation for Newcastle.’
“That’s the only thing we have to do. Tunnel vision. Nothing else matters really. And we need our fans to be in great shape on Wednesday as well.”
Van Dijk has been a rock at the heart of Liverpool’s defence this season, playing every minute of their Premier League campaign.
His leadership has been instrumental, particularly given the injury concerns surrounding his defensive partners, including Ibrahima Konate, Joe Gomez, and Jarell Quansah.
However, uncertainty lingers over Van Dijk’s future at Anfield, as his current contract is set to expire at the end of the season.
Despite this, his commitment on the pitch has been unwavering as Liverpool continue their pursuit of domestic glory.