Van Dijk calls on Liverpool to extend winning run against Brighton

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk says his side must build on their recent improvement when they face Brighton and Hove Albion in the Premier League at Anfield on Sunday.

Liverpool are fifth in the table and have won their past three matches in all competitions since suffering a 3-0 home defeat by Manchester City. Brighton and Hove Albion, who occupy third place, now provide their next test.

Van Dijk believes Liverpool’s recent results have created a positive mood within the squad, but insists that confidence will only matter if they produce another strong performance against an in-form Brighton side.

“Momentum is a big thing in football, and it is important that we maintain ours,” the Netherlands defender said on the club website.

“After three wins in a row, there is definitely a good feeling within the group right now, but that will count for nothing unless we follow up with another strong performance. Brighton arrive here in great form and will provide a really good test for us.

“They have good players and have been performing at a very high level this season, so we will need to be at our very best if we want to come away with all three points.”

The 35-year-old also warned Liverpool they must improve their start after requiring a comeback in their midweek UEFA Champions League match against Villarreal.

Liverpool eventually won that game 4-3, despite beginning slowly, and Van Dijk wants a more convincing opening against Brighton.

“Like I say, Brighton will be another big test for us, and hopefully this time we can start the game a lot better and show our quality from the first whistle,” added the centre-back.