No panic at Anfield: Van Dijk confident despite points dropped

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has shrugged off concerns of a potential dip in form for the Premier League leaders after their 1-1 draw against Nottingham Forest on 14 January.

Despite the dropped points, Liverpool remain four points clear at the top of the table with a game in hand.

Chris Wood's early goal put Forest ahead at the City Ground, but substitute Diogo Jota secured a point for the visitors. However, Liverpool failed to capitalise on several chances to claim all three points.

Arne Slot's side, aiming for a record-equalling 20th English top-flight title, have won only three of their last seven league matches. Their recent form includes a 1-0 defeat to Tottenham in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final last week.

Even so, Liverpool hold a comfortable lead over Forest, with third-placed Arsenal set to face Tottenham on Wednesday.

Van Dijk was quick to dismiss any talk of a crisis, attributing recent results to the competitiveness of the league rather than shortcomings in Liverpool's performances.

"So, we're in a crisis now? It only confirms that the Premier League is a very tough league where every opponent is strong," the captain remarked.

The Dutch international emphasised the importance of resilience, saying, "Every game is challenging. If we play like we did in the second half, keep fighting, and stay persistent, I'm confident we will score goals just as we have all season."

Despite recent stumbles, Liverpool have been formidable during Slot's first season at Anfield. The team has lost just twice across all competitions and remains in contention for four trophies.

"We've been outstanding throughout the season," Van Dijk noted. "In football, things don't always go your way, but that's part of the game. The hard work we've put in should give us the confidence to continue showing who we are."