Virgil van Dijk expects more "challenging times" ahead for Liverpool following their 7-2 humiliation by Aston Villa on Sunday.
The champions had won their opening three matches in relative comfort, but things came crashing down in emphatic fashion at the weekend as Villa hit them for seven, with new signing Ollie Watkins bagging a hat-trick.
Liverpool have since come under huge criticism for their defensive work during the game, particularly their high line which was constantly breached by the Villa forward line.
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Van Dijk is of the opinion that, because everyone wants Liverpool now to fall as they are champions, they can expect more challenges in the future with teams eager to take them down.
"I think trying to stay at the top is the hardest thing to do," he told the No Passion No Point podcast on BBC Sounds.
"Everyone wants to see you fall when you reach the top.
"That is what life is about, especially these days. For me, I want to give everything I have got until I retire and then have no regrets after.
"I don't want any regrets afterwards, I think that would be the worst feeling you can have. It is going to be challenging times coming up. We are champions - something that took a while.
"We should enjoy the moment and go for it."
The Dutchman went on to admit that he misses having the Anfield faithful in the stands during games as they can provide that extra motivation to spur the team on.
"The fans can play a massive part in difficult times during games and also at good times in games," Van Dijk continued.
"When you concede the fans will lift you and when you score they make the opponent go further away from you.
"It's the same case for everyone, but for us in particular everyone knows how difficult it is to play at Anfield with the fans behind us. Hopefully, things can change as soon as possible because we need fans.
"It lifts our performances at home but when you play away and the home fans turn against you - I like that.
"It gives you that motivation sometimes to do better. It's something I definitely enjoy and that I miss."
Liverpool have the time to reflect on the heavy loss to Villa as the international break is upon them. Following that, they take on high-flying Everton in the Merseyside derby.
