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LIVERPOOL captain Virgil van Dijk believes much of the success they have had this season is down to the players’ willingness to “go to war” for each other.

While there have not been many difficult moments so far in a season that has brought 18 wins in 20 matches, the Netherlands international thinks the mentality within the squad has played a key part.

There was a lack of that team spirit shown by Manchester City in their 2-0 defeat at Anfield which left them 11 points adrift of the Premier League leaders, whose nearest challengers are Arsenal and Chelsea nine behind.

But the ease and manner of Liverpool’s victory – had they won by two or three more it would not have flattered them – showed how Arne Slot has successfully made subtle changes to Jurgen Klopp’s squad.

“I think it was always going to be difficult to replace Jurgen for everything he did for us, as players and for the club, but he has come in, done it his way,” said Van Dijk.

“Together with the staff he started working and making sure we have the quality to improve and win games.
“But he makes sure we keep working, are not satisfied, focus on what is ahead of us next and keep improving.

“I think the step from, with all respect, the Dutch league to the Premier League is a big one obviously in terms of being a player but for a manager it is the same.

“He has come in and done very well so far and he has, in my opinion, inherited a very good squad not only as football players but as human beings – guys who will go to war for each other. -PA