'Make this a sort of a reality check' - Van Dijk

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk says Saturday's home defeat to Nottingham Forest was "unacceptable" and needs to provide a "reality check".

The Reds lost 1-0 at Anfield, a first defeat under Arne Slot.

"In terms of ourselves, we weren't good enough," Van Dijk said.

"It's a performance we are definitely not happy with and we expect a lot better from ourselves. Losing at home is definitely something that can't happen.

"We were a bit too rushed. We put the ball in the box a bit quick or over-played it. Then you don't get the momentum you want to get. A disappointing afternoon. We have to turn this around and make this a sort of a reality check to be better for the season because if you want to achieve things this season, the contrast between the two games we played now is too big."

Asked about getting back on track when they face AC Milan in the Champions League on Tuesday, he said: "Keep going, keep working. We all know how the atmosphere could change. That's also part of the influence from outside that could effect you. In my opinion we have a really good group that really understand today was unacceptable and we all know everyone can do better.

"We have been through losses and difficult moments together. I think we have to stay calm and will stay calm."

Listen to Van Dijk in full here