Van Dijk: We should have performed better and believe that new players can adapt to the Premier League perfectly

August 17th, after defeating Bournemouth at home in the first round of the Premier League, Liverpool defender Van Dijk said in an interview with the club's official website that the team should have performed better.

About the team starting the new season with victory

- We started with a victory, and there are many positive things, whether it is with or without the ball, we have good moments. Unfortunately, we conceded two goals and we should have performed better. But in this case, it was an emotional night, against a team that never gives up and has a great coach, we managed to score 3 points. We will have plenty of time to prepare for the next week.

There are four players making their debut at home, and it will take some time to find the balance - it's very normal, and I'm happy with the performance of these players. I think they were all tired when they were replaced, which is totally normal. The Premier League is the toughest league in the world and it demands very high, they have to adapt to this, and I believe they will do it perfectly. Now it's time for them to recover, and as I said, we have a lot of days to prepare for the game against Newcastle now and we have to be prepared because that's going to be a tough game.

Regarding Chiesa's substitute, it means a lot to him

- of course. He works very hard and has a good personality, and we all like him. I was so happy for him, especially on such a night where everyone has a lot of thoughts in their hearts, and I couldn't escape this. I am happy for him and for the team. I am very happy to get 3 points. Now we have to continue working hard and keep moving forward.

Everyone united in that emotion - the silence before the game, the reaction after the game - everyone was together. As Liverpool captain, you have always called for such solidarity…

—of course. I don't think anyone would underestimate what's going on. We support each other, whether it’s the players or the staff — but we also need the support of all the fans to get through this time. Let's go all out and enjoy this journey because we are all very lucky and very happy and everyone understands this.