Virgil van Dijk feels 'Anfield roar' returning ahead of Arsenal showdown

The Reds have won their last three home matches against Villarreal, Brighton and Chelsea, with Wednesday's Carabao Cup victory over Chelsea particularly boosting confidence ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash with Arsenal.

Liverpool drew 1-1 with Chelsea before progressing 6-5 on penalties to reach the quarter-finals, where they will face Bournemouth.

Van Dijk believes the improved performances have helped bring back the atmosphere that makes Anfield such a difficult place for visiting teams.

"It's a night like this and the other night against Villarreal - I think the fans definitely like what they're seeing and, of course, you feel that energy and it's great," the Netherlands international said.

"I've been feeling that energy for quite a while and when you then miss it a little bit, to get it back is obviously very good. Results help, massively. We understand it as well."

The Liverpool defender stressed that the team must maintain those standards consistently, rather than relying on occasional impressive performances.

"We want to show that for the full 90 minutes, every game, home and away, and obviously it's not the easiest thing to do, but we're trying to and nights like this help," he added.

"We put a lot of work in behind the scenes. Hopefully the reward will come."

Liverpool showed their squad depth against Chelsea, with manager Andoni Iraola making seven changes and giving opportunities to several young players, including four players under the age of 22.

Van Dijk was pleased with the team's defensive organisation and energy, despite the changes to the starting line-up.

"I don't think we gave much away throughout the whole game; a couple of shots from distance, I think. We did well. We brought a lot of energy," he said.

"We could have done better maybe a couple of times. But overall, I'm happy with the evening and I'm happy that we went through."

Liverpool will now turn their attention to a major test against Premier League champions Arsenal at Anfield on Sunday.

READ MORE: 'I'm here to do my job' - Carrick 'going nowhere' as Man Utd face Chelsea showdown