Virgil van Dijk has urged Liverpool to be ready for a “big fight” when they face Premier League leaders Arsenal on Thursday, insisting it is the type of fixture that should energise the squad as they aim to extend their unbeaten run to 10 games.
The Reds were held to a second straight draw on Sunday, with Harrison Reed’s late strike earning Fulham a 2-2 draw at Craven Cottage after Cody Gakpo had looked to have won it.
Next up is a trip to the Emirates to face Mikel Arteta’s side, who sit six points clear at the top, while Liverpool remain fourth, three points ahead of Chelsea.
Van Dijk says the mood in the camp remains positive and has called on his teammates to roll up their sleeves for the challenge ahead.
Van Dijk said: “First of all, we will recover from this, but from Tuesday on, we will definitely look at the strength that they have. They have a fantastic squad with players on the pitch and also coming from the bench.
“Listen, we all know at home they are unbeaten this season, I think, in all competitions. So it is a nice challenge and we should be ready for a big fight.
“I’m really looking forward to it and I think everyone should. That is the only way to try and get a result over there. There is no reason to not look forward to it, in my opinion. Another opportunity, but first recover and then we’ll focus on that.”
Read more: Liverpool expected to sign 17-year-old centre-back El Hadj Mor Talla Ndiaye
Why Florian Wirtz didn’t celebrate controversial equaliser in Liverpool’s draw with Fulham
Arne Slot issues update on fitness issue that ruled Hugo Ekitike out of Fulham tie
