Programme notesVirgil van Dijk: We know the scale of the task but these are nights we live for

The Reds need to overturn a two-goal deficit in their Champions League quarter-final with holders Paris Saint-Germain.

A flawless performance from every Red in the stadium is required if a last-four berth is to be secured, the captain stressed.

In his column in the official matchday programme, he wrote: "The circumstances may be a little different, but this is a familiar place we find ourselves in. Anfield, a big UEFA Champions League night, a top opponent and the chance, together, to do something really special as a club.

"I couldn't be looking forward to tonight more, and I hope you guys feel the same. Yes, we know the size and the scale of the task facing us, but these are the games, the nights that we all live for. If you can't get excited for this, then you're in the wrong sport, in my opinion.

"I said after the first leg in Paris that we will need something special if we are to progress to the semi-finals, and that applies first and foremost to our own performance, but also to the atmosphere and the support that you guys will provide. Both will need to be absolutely spot on if we are to have a chance.

"I have been very lucky to experience those nights where the connection between the fans and the performance has been unbelievable.

"I think of Manchester City, Roma, Barcelona of course, even Real Madrid both this season and last, and I can assure you all that everyone in this dressing room believes we can do something again this evening.

"Yes, the performance in Paris was not good enough, and we must improve in every area if we are to have a chance. Anfield, though, is different, and hopefully we can show that tonight.

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"It starts with us, with our belief and our mentality. With every challenge, every tackle, every header, every run, every attack, we have to show intent and commitment and desire. PSG are a very good team and we have to be ready to do the hard yards for 90+ minutes – and more if necessary.

"Like I say, I am looking forward to the game immensely. These are the occasions we have to embrace, every one of us together.

"Let's give it everything we have, and hopefully we can write another special chapter in Liverpool's history.

"This week is a hugely important one for the club, both on and off the pitch, as tomorrow we mark the 37th anniversary of Hillsborough.

"I consider myself extremely blessed to be the captain of this football club, and on behalf of everybody at the club we want to honour the men, women and children who lost their lives, and to pay our respects to all those affected by what happened that day.

"You are in our thoughts, on this day and always."