Virgil van Dijk says that Liverpool must first enjoy still being in three competitions, despite the physical strain it will put on the players.
The Reds have already won the Carabao Cup this term and are therefore seeking an unprecedented quadruple. The Premier League title looked like it was Manchester City’s back in January. However, City’s lead over Liverpool at the top is now just a point.
What’s more, the two sides still have to face off at the Etihad Stadium. And a week after that match, the two sides meet again at Wembley for a place in the FA Cup final.
Indeed, Liverpool progressed to the last four in that competition on Sunday with victory over Nottingham Forest.
Meanwhile, Jurgen Klopp’s side face Benfica in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.
The Reds continue their quest for four trophies after the final international break of the season. Speaking to Liverpool’s official website, Van Dijk insisted that his team-mates are first and foremost thinking about enjoying the run-in.
“Obviously that’s something that we all want first and foremost, so you have to look after yourself, make sure you recover well, prepare well,” the 30-year-old said.
“I think one of the first things you don’t have to forget is: enjoy it.
“Like today [against Forest], it’s something you should enjoy, these nights where you have to fight for everything.
“So that’s what we have to do in April as well. An international break now, we have to fight for our countries in a good way hopefully, a change of scenery and hopefully everyone comes back fit and healthy.”
Liverpool are enjoying competition for places this season, following last season’s injury nightmares. Indeed, Van Dijk insisted that his team-mates have to perform at their best to keep their place.
Asked if the current run can inspire the younger players in the team, Van Dijk said: “Hopefully it does! But I think everyone, not even the younger guys, everyone should enjoy it.
“And it’s tough sometimes because you want to play as well as you can, and even today when there were moments where we were a bit sloppy on the ball but still kept going and kept pressing, these moments always happen and you just have to give it your all, enjoy the moment and focus on the game ahead of us.
“It’s good we are going to Wembley again.”
Van Dijk starring in triumphant Liverpool return
Liverpool’s key injuries across the pitch last season, but especially at centre-back, saw them drop off from their highest level.
Netherlands captain Van Dijk was a huge miss as he recovered from a serious knee injury.
However, he has returned with a massive impact this season, playing 27 of 29 Premier League games.
Van Dijk has also featured heavily in the Reds’ FA Cup and Champions League runs as they look for more silverware.
Liverpool return to action against Watford at Anfield, before facing a defining week and a half.
They play Benfica in the two legs of the Champions League quarter-finals, as well as Man City twice in the Premier League and FA Cup.
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