Virgil van Dijk has credited Liverpool’s strong defensive performance to the team’s collective effort after their 1-0 win over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, Soccernet.football reports.
Diogo Jota’s first-half goal secured all three points, ensuring Liverpool remain top of the Premier League heading into the international break.
Jota capitalised on some slack Palace defending, sealing Liverpool’s third consecutive league victory.
The Reds have now won six of their seven Premier League games this season, with only one defeat to Nottingham Forest marring their campaign so far.
Speaking to TNT Sports via BBC after the game, Van Dijk acknowledged the importance of teamwork in maintaining their solid defensive record.
“We keep going and we keep working. We are never satisfied,” said the Dutchman. “We needed Alli [Alisson] twice, but that is what we try to avoid. Everyone is contributing to clean sheets.”
Liverpool have only conceded two goals in seven matches, boasting the best defensive record in the division.
Reflecting on the win, Van Dijk said, “It is hard to come here. The results over the years are tight and close. Obviously, we scored a fantastic goal, and we could have done better in the second half, but we knew they’d come out with pressure.”
The win puts Liverpool at the top of the Premier League, with 18 points from seven games.
They now turn their attention to a home clash with Chelsea after the international break, with their impressive defensive form continuing to be the foundation of their title challenge.