Liverpool dressing room's thoughts on title race as Virgil van Dijk opens up

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has downplayed the notion that a victory over Manchester City would see them put one hand on the Premier League trophy already despite the potential to extend their lead to 11 points.

The Dutchman’s comments come as both City manager Pep Guardiola and midfielder Ilkay Gundogan have suggested that a loss at Anfield could spell the end of the visitors’ quintuple title dreams.

With Liverpool also outpacing Arsenal and Chelsea, Van Dijk remains cautious, emphasising the season’s length after their impressive Champions League triumph against Real Madrid.

“We are going to be in December on Sunday and there are still five months to go,” Van Dijk remarked after their 2-0 Anfield victory.

“Obviously we want to win the game but we know what they are capable of and first and foremost we have to be ready for that challenge and whatever happens after that we have to keep going and stay calm.”

Van Dijk has warned his team-mates to be prepared for a tough match against City, despite the latter’s recent poor form. “For a reason they won [the title] four times in a row,” he said. “We have to be ready for a very difficult one at the weekend and we will be.

“Hopefully not on Sunday but we have to be at our best to get a result and that’s what we are aiming for.”

Van Dijk also noted that City are known for their strong performances after Christmas, which have previously helped them overcome significant point deficits.

This suggests that Liverpool should not underestimate their opponents, especially as City could secure their first win at Anfield under Guardiola with a crowd present.

This would reduce the gap at the top of the table to just five points.

“We should not look at anyone but ourselves,” Van Dijk advised. “As long as we are consistent, getting points on the board, that is all that matters.

“That is what we are focusing on. I want to make sure we as a team are winning games, finding ways to win the game, working our socks off and staying calm.”