Luis Diaz says Liverpool know they must do better and reflects on ‘special connection’ with Mohamed Salah | Football news

Luis Diaz says Liverpool’s start to the season has been “problematic” but admits they must do better after picking up just two points from their opening three Premier League games.

Jurgen Klopp’s side are followed by draws at Fulham and stay at home to Crystal Palace with a 2-1 defeat first Manchester United on Monday – a result that saw Erik ten Hag earn his first point as Man Utd manager on the third ask.

Those results leave Liverpool 16th in the table and while the season is still in its infancy, Diaz admits that things have to improve.

“It was a bit of a rough start,” said the Colombian forward. “It was not the start we wanted for the season. We are a club that always strives to get three points from every game we play.

“I wouldn’t say it’s a problem for the players or the manager but for sure we all know we need to do better.”

Liverpool have entered the game against Man Utd as strong favorites, as their opponents have started the season with defeats before Brighton and Brentfordwhile Klopp’s men won 5-0 in a similar match last season.

But goals from Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford meant Liverpool were forced to taste defeat for the first time in five Premier League visits to Old Trafford.

“We are fully aware of the rivalry between the clubs and we know we have a big task ahead of us.

“We know now we have to do our job and train hard, rest hard and look forward to the next game, when we can hope to accumulate some points and get off to a good start. fit for the season.”

‘Liverpool fans are the greatest’

While Diaz admits he is unhappy with Liverpool’s current situation, he allows himself to be positive about his performance.

The 25-year-old has been a hit after arriving at Anfield from Porto for £49m in January and has continued to impress in the early stages of this campaign, especially with a superb individual effort that has saved his life. save a point for Liverpool. against the Palace.

“Personally, I feel very good,” says Diaz. “I had a good start. My own performance, I was satisfied, I felt great and I had a very successful appearance.

“I’m happy to contribute my grain to the team. We all need to contribute in that way.

“I’m very happy to be here at this great club, with some great players, and it’s been a very professional setup that I’ve had.

“The important thing now is to improve and get some good experience for us for the rest of the season.”

Diaz’s effort against Palace left the Anfield audience in awe as it looked like their side were on their way towards a shock home defeat, and he said he was grateful for the appreciation. surname.

“I want to thank God that I scored that goal,” Diaz said. “It helped us get that big point, a very important point for us, so I’m happy to score that.

“I think it’s important for me to be ready to take these opportunities to go on and score goals.

“The fans, from the very beginning I felt a strong passion, respect and love for me. I felt it immediately. I could feel they were fans. greatest grave out there.”

Diaz: It’s great to play with Salah

Diaz appeared to have nailed the starting position on the left flank of Klopp’s 4-3-3 after Sadio Mane left Bayern Munich but a familiar face remained on the opposite flank.

Mohamed Salah – who signed a new three-year contract in the summer – continues to be a key player for Liverpool and scores in games against Fulham and Man Utd.

While both players play important roles in Klopp’s forward line, Diaz admits he is still in a position to play in the same team as Salah.

Diaz said: “It is great for me to be able to share my place on the team with Mo. “I’ve seen him over the years on television at so many tournaments and I want to say I’m proud of myself, having reached this position where I can share with him my experiences. hey, to wear the same shirt and be one of his teammates, it’s really something special.

“Every day, playing alongside players like him, it helps you to improve, not only in terms of football consciousness as a player but as a person.

“He’s a great guy and there’s a very special connection between him and me, and between all of us, in fact.”