Liverpool suffered several last minute defeats in the weeks before the October international break. When they come back on Sunday, they will host rivals Manchester United at Anfield. This could be the perfect
remedy to kickstart a successful autumn or it could be a disaster that continues the team’s downward trajectory after such a positive start to the season.
Making things even more interesting is the fact that Manchester United are in an even more perilous situation at the moment. Sitting in 10th place, they will see a game against a potentially weakened Liverpool squad as an opportunity.
Captain Virgil van Dijk was interviewed for the matchday programme, and he emphasized the need for the players and fans to go into the match with a positive attitude.
“We know this will be a tough game, as every match in this league is, but we expect Anfield to be rocking and hopefully we can give you plenty to shout about,” he said.
“We know we need to show a positive reaction after a difficult week before the international break. To lose the way we did at Chelsea, having worked so hard to fight our way back into the game, was extremely disappointing – particularly given the results against Crystal Palace and Galatasaray beforehand.
“But this is football, and these things can happen, especially when you’re competing in competitions like the Premier League and Champions League, against the best teams and players. Nothing comes easy, and nor should it.”
Van Dijk then laid out the tenants that he believes are required for the team: I’ve spoken many times about what is required at this club – hard work, humility, togetherness, consistency – and that applies just as much in the not-so-good moments as it does in the good ones.“
This is clearly one of those not so good moments. It’s been a very long time since Liverpool have lost three Premier League games in a row, and they definitely don’t want to hit that depressing milestone at home against Manchester United.
The international break is hardly restful, but hopefully some time in a different environment will refresh the players and help them perform to the level that we know is possible.
