Virgil van Dijk: We know we have to stand up and be counted

"I have said many times before that humility and togetherness is the key, both in the good times and the not-so-good times. We need to show both of those qualities this evening," the captain writes in the matchday programme.

"You don't need me to tell you what has been happening recently. Our results and performances have not been good enough, and it is up to us now to show our best side and work our way out of this difficult situation.

"I can assure you that everyone in this dressing room understands the challenge facing us, and that we are all working as hard as we possibly can to turn things around.

"None of us likes what is happening, but believe me when I say I have full confidence in the quality and character of this team. I see the work that is being put in on a daily basis, and the ability of our players, but now we have to go out there and show it on the pitch. Everyone, myself included, has to stand up and be counted.

"Tonight will be a tough game, no question. Aston Villa had a difficult start to the season, but they have been in excellent form recently, picking up some really good results.

"They have good players and a very good manager, so we will need to concentrate from the first whistle to the last and be ready to work extremely hard to get the three points. Nothing is going to be given to us, we know that.

"It starts with us and our performance levels, of course, but believe me when I say that you guys can play your part tonight also. We are going to need that atmosphere, that noise and that support for sure.

"I have said many times before that, in my opinion, there is no better place to play football than at Anfield for Liverpool, especially a night game. It is a privilege that none of us players will ever take for granted, and something we will always look forward to, believe me.

"So let's enjoy the privilege once more. Let's push each other, from the pitch to the stands, and let's do the only thing we can do in a situation like this. Head down, work hard, stick together and get back on track."

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