Virgil van Dijk: Liverpool belong in the Champions League

Virgil van Dijk says Liverpool “belong in the Champions League” and qualification for next season’s competition is the overriding focus, writes Tom Prentki.

With progression in this year’s tournament all but over after a 5-2 defeat by Real Madrid in the round of 16 first leg last Tuesday, Liverpool face Wolves and Manchester United at Anfield in what may be a defining week in their season.

A drab goalless draw at Crystal Palace on Saturday did at least make it seven points from nine for Jurgen Klopp’s side and victories against Wolves on Wednesday and United on Sunday would leave them firmly in contention for the top four.

“I want to qualify for the Champions League because I want to play in the Champions League,” Van Dijk said. “We are with the last four or five years spoilt with everything we’ve been going through. We have been winning all the trophies that were available.

“We had a season last year that we were competing for all the trophies until the last day so to have this bumpy season so far is a shock for everyone.”

James Milner says the squad have been reassured by Van Dijk’s return from injury in what he labelled “a strange season” but he too admitted past glories have weighed heavily on their shoulders.

“It’s one of those you have to put into perspective and say things haven’t gone our way and not be burdened by what we’ve been over the last few years,” he said.