Liverpool’s skipper Virgil van Dijk (33) asserts that the Premier League frontrunners are well-equipped to handle the increasing tension of the title contest.
Under the guidance of Arne Slot, the team surged seven points ahead of second-placed Arsenal after narrowly defeating a struggling Wolves side 2-1 on Sunday, despite a lacklustre performance in the second half.
Following a last-gasp equaliser conceded against local rivals Everton the previous Wednesday, an atmosphere of anxiety enveloped Anfield as Liverpool fought to maintain their lead during the latter stages against Wolves.
Van Dijk acknowledged the concerns prevalent among the fans and anticipates further excitement as Liverpool draws closer to a potential record-equaling 20th English title.
“We are all human at the end of the day, and I completely understand that anxiety or nervousness can set in,” he remarked.
“I’ve said it for weeks now; we need to brace ourselves and enjoy the journey. There will undoubtedly be many ups and downs.
“If you aren’t prepared for it, the coming months could be quite tough, but I genuinely believe we, as a team, are ready for the challenge.”
“We’re going to give it everything we’ve got, and we’ll find out in 13 matches if that’s sufficient.”
Should Liverpool secure a victory over Aston Villa on Wednesday, they can stretch their lead to 10 points.
However, Van Dijk is acutely aware of how a 10-point lead can evaporate, having experienced it earlier in the season when Liverpool missed out on the title.
In January 2019, Liverpool enjoyed a similar advantage over Manchester City, only to succumb at the Etihad Stadium, as Pep Guardiola’s squad went on an incredible run, winning 18 of their final 19 fixtures, while the Reds ended the season just a point adrift in second place.
With a mere 13 matches left, Arsenal are in a race against time to catch Liverpool, and Van Dijk is confident that Liverpool can manage the pressure in the tense final weeks of the season.
“I can’t speak for others, but I can only share my perspective and what I convey to my teammates because I’ve been in this situation and missed out twice as well,” he stated.
“We must focus all our energy on ourselves, which is already a significant challenge – just look at how Wolves made it tough for us, and Wednesday will present its own difficulties.”
“If you divert your attention to external factors or other teams, it will only backfire, so we must remain focused.”
“Some players might keep an eye on other teams, but that won’t be beneficial.”
“I believe that was part of our mindset in the season we won it (in 2020): we persevered and discovered a way through.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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