Virgil van Dijk calls for 'special performance' vs PSG after Liverpool returns to winning ways

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After stuttering in recent weeks, the Reds got back on track against Fulham. Now it's all eyes on PSG a crucial Champions League second leg at Anfield on Tuesday

Virgil van Dijk has called on Liverpool to produce a special performance against PSG

Virgil van Dijk said everyone at Liverpool will need to believe the team is capable of producing a “special performance” if it is to progress against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday.

The Reds warmed up for the Champions League second leg with a 2-0 win over Fulham, ending their three-game losing streak and lifting some of the gloom that has hung over the club in recent weeks.

Rio Ngumoha and Mohamed Salah grabbed the decisive first-half strikes at Anfield in a match sandwiched between the PSG double header. While Arne Slot claimed pre-match that the looming specter of that second leg would not impact Liverpool’s focus, his rotated team selection said otherwise.

With a vital three points in the bag, now it’s all eyes on the European champions. Van Dijk, a veteran of countless Champions League nights at Anfield, believes Liverpool can overturn the odds and progress to the final four despite losing this week’s meeting 2-0.

“It's down to us to keep going,” the ex-Southampton man told BBC’s Match of the Day on Saturday.

“We're going through a season where we haven't been able to build on performances. It's down to us to have a special night on Tuesday - that's the target.

Van Dijk has called on Liverpool to produce a special performance against PSG

“So we don't get carried away, look after ourselves, rest up and be ready for an outstanding team on Tuesday that plays with confidence.

“We are at home and we have to show belief that we can do it. It needs a special performance but I'm lucky I have been part of special performances, so I will try and bring that across for the team. We need everyone to have the same mindset.”

The win over Fulham also helps strengthen Liverpool’s chances of securing a Champions League spot next season.

Liverpool got back to winning ways against Fulham(Image: Getty Images)

The Reds moved five points clear of Chelsea, who faces title-chasing Manchester City on Sunday.

“Six games left. Every game is massive, especially if you look at opponents,” said Van Dijk.

“We all know how important Champions League is for the club in general, but financially too.

“We want to finish the season in the best way with the best performances we can on the pitch. Today was a good win and that's it.”