Van Dijk: Liverpool's Standards Are Higher Than Just Champions League Qualification

Liverpool's chances of qualifying for the Champions League have improved following the weekend's results, but captain Virgil van Dijk believes this isn't the standard by which the club should measure itself. Returning to Europe's elite club competition is imperative, not just for the players on the pitch, but also for the club's hierarchy, as a lack of revenue would impact their transfer budget. While securing a top-five finish might be seen as a positive outcome at the end of an incredibly disappointing season, Van Dijk stated the team cannot afford to think that way.

“The reality is we have five more games to play and we have to try and qualify for the Champions League. That is definitely not the standards I expect and envision as a Liverpool player – just to qualify for the Champions League,” the defender added.

A derby victory against Everton ended a run of four losses in five matches, including exits from the FA Cup and Champions League. A strong performance in Saturday's away fixture against Crystal Palace, who are focused on their Conference League semi-final, will be crucial before next weekend's trip to Old Trafford.

Van Dijk and Mohamed Salah were the goalscorers against Everton, but Salah and Andy Robertson are set to leave the club in July. When asked if the team needed a reset, the center-back responded: “You have to ask the people higher up. The management has discussions regarding player departures, but they make the decisions. I am almost certain everyone has good intentions for the club's development, and hopefully, we won't have a season like this again.”