Virgil van Dijk: Champions League evenings at Anfield are a privilege that we missed

The Reds celebrated their return to Europe's elite club competition with an impressive 3-1 win over AC Milan at the San Siro two weeks ago and now face another Serie A club in their first home game of the league phase.

In his notes on the official matchday program, captain Van Dijk writes: “As Liverpool players we enjoy many privileges and playing at Anfield on a UEFA Champions League night is high on that list.”

“We definitely missed this competition last season. The Europa League was good for us and of course we were disappointed that we didn't make it, but there is just something special about the Champions League.

“It's the competition that everyone wants to take part in and of course I don't have to tell you about the incredible history of this club.

“Some of the best memories of my career have come on nights like these, but that just makes me hungrier to do more. We say every season that we want to attack every competition and that is especially true when it comes to the Champions League.

“We got off to a good start in our European campaign in Milan two weeks ago. The way we recovered from a difficult start to this game was very pleasing and gives us a good platform to build on for the future.”