Liverpool will need Van Dijk to marshal the defence again to stop City

Virgil van Dijk was a picture of calm as he considered what lies ahead at the Etihad Stadium and the storm that Manchester City are sure to try to whip up.

He was forced to field questions on pressure, fear and the unlikeliest of comebacks, and yet the Holland centre back senses a glorious opportunity rather than a chastening ordeal.

“I’m never nervous,” he said. “I am just excited. I think, ‘Look where I am, playing for the semi-finals of the Champions League with my team. Just enjoy it and love it.’

“We are 3-0 up in a massive game, our fans are going to be ready and it is a great place to play.

“I like pressure anyway. You want the challenge, and to