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Arne Slot’s Premier League champions stormed back from conceding the first goal of the game to highlight their attacking class on a night when Florian Wirtz started to flex his muscles in the Liverpool team at last. Hugo Ekitike caught the eye for Liverpool again as his goal sparked their fightback, with Van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate goals from corners guiding the visitors into a comfortable half-time lead. Wirtz provided assists for Cody Gakpo and Dominik Szoboszlai to complete Liverpool’s thumping win, with Van Dijk insisting he remained calm amid suggestions that a crisis was brewing after the quartet of losses. “I don't know if it's a statement, but it is a win and something to build on,” said Van Dijk. “I’ve been in the football business for a while, so not relief. Obviously we are disappointed with losing games, so it’s something we have to deal with, stick together and keep working. “Today we won and have to be ready for Brentford on Saturday. We don’t get dragged into the negative things that are going around. “The only way you can play your game is to focus on the task ahead. Keep going, don't get dragged into all that stuff.” Ekitike also gave his verdict on a big win for Liverpool, as he relished the chance to play against his former club. “It was a great feeling to come back,” said Ekitike. “It was something special to come back home. “To win and score my first Champions League goal here was important. I just keep it calm and cool. I knew he would come and open his legs so I put it between the legs and that worked. “I have very good team mates, staff and I love my life here. I hope I can keep going because it's about consistency in football. I feel really good and they have helped me a lot, that is why I am calm and doing my thing.” Ekitike declined the chance to celebrate his goal in front of the Frankfurt fans and he admitted that was a mark of respect for former employer. “I have so much respect for Frankfurt,” he added. “They made me the player I am and I wouldn't be here if I didn't go to Frankfurt. I am respectful and grateful for what they did to me.” Liverpool boss Arne Slot confirmed Alexander Isak was replaced at the start of the second-half because of a groin injury and admitted he did not know if the club’s record signing would be fit to face Brentford in the Premier League on Saturday.
