Van Dijk assessed the team's performance after Liverpool's 0-3 home defeat to Nottingham Forest. This game is Liverpool's first game back on the field after the international break. Why is Liverpool performing poorly now? We conceded som...
Van Dijk assessed the team's performance after Liverpool's 0-3 home defeat to Nottingham Forest. This game is Liverpool's first game back on the field after the international break.
Why is Liverpool performing poorly now?
We conceded some goals that we shouldn’t have conceded. I thought we played well in the first 30 minutes and created some good opportunities. But they scored from a set piece and you could question whether he was in front of Alisson but it went in so we were 1-0 down. Overall, we didn't do a good enough job in terms of duels, challenges and two penalty shootouts. Too impatient. The current situation is very difficult and today is a difficult day.
Are there any nerves about the team?
There was definitely nerves after conceding the goal, but not at that particular moment. It’s human nature to rush for an equalizer after conceding a goal. I don’t think there was any nerves before the set-piece, we’d cleared the ball successfully before. In short, we are in a very difficult period now and we have to get out of this predicament. But it’s useless to just talk, I’d rather solve the problem with my teammates on the court. This requires a lot of effort.
How do players find solutions?
This is indeed a problem. I'm willing to take responsibility. But I think everyone on the team should take responsibility, not just the starters but also the bench players. Football is a team sport and we need everyone to be at their best to win. I've mentioned this many times before. Now we have to accept reality and redouble our efforts. Although I have said it many times this season, the effect is not obvious, but we have to keep moving forward.
The reaction in the locker room?
Obviously everyone is disappointed, because losing to Nottingham Forest at home is a very bad thing. Especially in the second half, we conceded goals too easily. Everyone needs to reflect and take responsibility. I've been at the club for a long time, experienced ups and downs, and I'm sure we will bounce back. But this won’t happen overnight and we need to work together. This is not a one-man show, but a whole team thing. Keep up the good work. But the reality is we are in a very difficult time and we all want to get out of this. I am not a person who gives up easily and no one should give up so I will persevere until the end.
About the fans?
I cannot decide the behavior of fans. If they leave early, I totally understand their frustration. But I know the fans have supported us all these years and that's the spirit of Liverpool. I believe they will always support us no matter what. They will celebrate with us when we come out of trouble.
