Ahead of Liverpool's first Premier League match of the new season, captain Van Dijk was interviewed by Roger Bennett, host of the podcast "Men in Blazers," at the club's training ground. He discussed Liverpool's new season, leadership, the absence of Salah and Robertson, and what it feels like to play under new manager Arne Slot. The following is the second part of the exclusive interview.

Related article: [Van Dijk: Time and experience have made me better; my playing style has changed a lot]

Look at this Liverpool team—there are so many weapons. Dominik Szoboszlai can impose his will on opponents whenever he chooses. You also have 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha, who is extremely explosive and agile, and 19-year-old Trey Nyoni, who was arguably the standout player in preseason. This is a season of great change in the Premier League, with many teams undergoing major changes—not just Liverpool. So, as the season begins, what or who gives you the most confidence in this team?

The thing is, in my opinion, if you're part of Liverpool, you have to have the confidence to compete at the absolute highest level, and that's absolutely ingrained in me. That hasn't changed throughout all the years I've been at this club. The key to success at any level is consistency, and that's what we have to strive for: we have to find consistency. Obviously, as individuals, we need to maintain such a high standard that we can beat anyone. But, especially as a team, we need to take care of ourselves and stay healthy. It's a combination of all these factors. If you're consistent enough and avoid too many injuries, you have a great chance to compete in the final stages of any competition, and that should be our goal.

What are the team's goals for this year? In terms of league performance, what minimum result would make you proud?

League performance... As Liverpool captain and a Liverpool player, I hope to contend for the Premier League title. But you also have to be realistic. We saw how strong Arsenal were last season and how consistent they were. Obviously, looking at their current squad, their depth is also excellent. But looking at myself and our team, I feel we definitely have the strength to contend for the Premier League title. We have to do better than last season—that’s a fact.

You've been in this city, Liverpool, for almost nine years now. I don't know whether that time has passed quickly. You joined in December 2017, and every Liverpool fan I know has a picture in their home of you holding a Liverpool shirt in front of a Christmas tree. How much do you feel like a Merseysider? What's the most Liverpudlian thing about you, Virgil?

I love this club, and it means so much to me. I feel the responsibility, as well as the love and appreciation from the fans, which is very special. I have a family, and my children are almost all Liverpudlians now. So, yes, this club means the world to me, and I think everyone knows that.

Serious question: Can you speak with a decent Liverpudlian accent?

No.

Really can't?

Maybe one day, when I...

Not at all?

I do it in the dressing room.

Really?

But not with you.

You're a smart man, and I know you have a long career ahead of you. Is there anything else you want to achieve, or do you feel you've already proven yourself?

I don't think I need to prove anything to anyone. What I do know is that I want to keep giving my all. As you said, I feel very good. I know how the football world works. When you're 35, people will say, "Oh, can he still do it? He's done," and so on. So I need to block out those voices, and honestly, I've done quite well at that. I just enjoy the process and the journey.

When you eventually leave Anfield, what do you want the Liverpool fans who watched you play to remember about you when they look at their grandchildren and say, “I saw Virgil Van Dijk play”?

I inspired this generation of fans and defenders and became a very successful player and captain for this football club.

All the best to you and your family, and good luck in the new season. Thank you, mate.

Thank you very much.

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