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Virgil van Dijk makes 'rhythm' vow and issues AC Milan rally cry after shock loss

Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk is determined to inspire the team to put the defeat against Nottingham Forest quickly behind them
-Credit: (Image: Alex Livesey - Danehouse/Getty Images)


Virgil van Dijk believes the quick turnaround in games will help Liverpool find some "rhythm" as it looks to avenge the loss against Nottingham Forest versus AC Milan.

The Merseysiders went into the international break among the Premier League's early pace-setters having won its first three fixtures of the season. However, that momentum was curtailed as Forest earned a shock 1-0 win at Anfield - as Arne Slot tasted defeat for the first time as Liverpool head coach.

However, the chance to put things right will come quickly as the Reds prepare to face Milan in the first round of Champions League fixtures this week. Slot's outfit will head to San Siro on Tuesday, with skipper Van Dijk convinced that the clash represents the perfect opportunity for the team to get back on track.

Speaking after the defeat against Nuno Espirito Santo's men at the weekend, he asserted that the prospect of a game every three days moving forward will be a positive thing for the Reds. He said: "Hopefully if there are no injuries happening then rhythm is always a good thing.

"We need the whole squad and we know after the international break it will be a game ever three days so we need everyone in their best shape and best form. Now we go home and the recovery session starts: treatment, ice bath, sauna and swimming pool in order to do everything possible to be ready for Tuesday.

"And then it's on and on and on so that's the sacrifice we take, he continued, as he revealed his mindset as he vowed to put the Forest loss behind him. "I am definitely looking forward to Tuesday but I am disappointed we didn't put in a performance today. We are much better than we showed today."

Virgil van Dijk admitted that the mood within the Liverpool camp was one of dejection after the loss
Virgil van Dijk admitted that the mood within the Liverpool camp was one of dejection after the loss -Credit:Getty

With Liverpool having competed in the Europa League last term, the Dutchman is also relishing the prospect of appearing in the continent's premier club competition once more this season. He admitted: "I missed it. I can't wait to be out there hearing the Champions League tune and leading out the boys.

"A club like Liverpool needs to be in the Champions League and we are finally back and let's go out there and put a much better performance in than we did today as it is needed otherwise you are going to have an issue. I'm really looking forward to it and hopefully all our fans travelling over there to support us will be in high spirits and loud voices.

"It's always a special moment whenever I lead out the boys so Tuesday won't be any different. It is always amazing to be playing in the Champions League."

Going into further detail about the mood in the Liverpool locker room, Van Dijk also insisted that he expects an instant response in midweek. Speaking about his response to the setback, vowed to "keep going and keep working and make sure the performances don't go in that direction".

"We all know how the atmosphere can change but that is also part of the influence from outside which could affect you," he continued, as he confessed that the Reds players are determined to avoid a downturn in form. "We have a very good group that really understand that today was unacceptable and are disappointed.

"We all know everyone can do better and we have to show that on Tuesday and that is what we focus on. We have been through losses and difficult moments together and I think we have to stay calm and we will stay calm."