Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk calls for 'ruthless focus' ahead of tough Brighton away trip

Liverpool delivered a commanding performance at Anfield, winning 4-0 on the night to seal a 4-1 aggregate victory and book their place in the Champions League quarter-finals, where Paris Saint-Germain await next month.

Despite the impressive result, Van Dijk made it clear the job is far from done, especially with Saturday's early kick-off at the American Express Stadium looming.

"I think occasionally we've shown we can play very good games, but not consistently," the captain admitted. "That's been frustrating for us and for the fans."

He added: "The only thing we can do is keep going, try to improve and represent the badge in the best way possible every time we step on the pitch."

Van Dijk described the win over Galatasaray as "a good night" but warned against complacency. "We've had good performances this season and haven't built on them. That's the hardest thing – doing it every three or four days. If you manage that, you give yourself a big chance of being successful."

Looking ahead, the defender highlighted the challenge of facing Brighton away from home. "It was a demanding game physically and mentally. Now it's about recovery and doing everything right to be ready, because Brighton away is always difficult."

Reflecting on the Anfield atmosphere, Van Dijk praised the supporters for their role in the victory. "There was a lot at stake and the fans played a big part. We felt that energy, just like we did in Istanbul from their side."

He concluded with a message of unity: "If we bring that level every week and the fans bring that energy, then we move forward together. We take responsibility when we're not good enough, but qualifying for the last eight is something positive."