Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has sent out a word of warning to Chelsea ahead of Sunday’s Carabao Cup final.

Up to 10 Liverpool players are currently out injured, with key players like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alisson Becker, Diogo Jota and Curtis Jones all ruled out.

Mohamed Salah, Darwin Nunez and Dominik Szoboszlai face late fitness tests as well, with Jurgen Klopp having to prepare a weakened side to face Chelsea.

As a result, many believe that Chelsea may now hold the advantage heading into the tie, especially after their impressive display at Manchester City last weekend.

Van Dijk has now warned Chelsea to underestimate the Reds at their own peril, as he’s backing the club’s young players to step up to the plate.

“I think the players coming in have to step up and show they’re wrong. I think that’s the only way to do it,” Van Dijk said ahead of the final.

“If they take us lightly, then that’s their problem. I think we have enough quality to read the opponents. Players who come in have to show that fear factor; we don’t have influence on that. Everyone has to step up, the ones that play have to deliver to get results.

“Younger players as well, everyone has to take responsibility. They also have to enjoy that. I think everyone wants to get the opportunity and show themselves, and they have to be confident.

“I’m not worried about that. They just have to go out there and show their qualities. I think if you play for Liverpool, you’re quite a good player already, so go out there and make everyone proud.”