"It's been a long road, but it's one that has made me really appreciate what's ahead. And not just today, it's just about being back with the boys, training and loving it," Joe Gomez told LFC TV of his return from injury, as quoted by the Liverpool Echo.
"I didn't need perspective, but I definitely got much further into how much of a blessing it is to play in front of this crowd. Today was a special atmosphere.
"We're so lucky to have the support like this and a stadium like this to create such a special atmosphere. Obviously, for the likes of me and Virg, these are monumental moments for us. It was one I really enjoyed, for sure.
"Psychologically there are so many little hurdles, like just heading the ball for the first time, experiencing that pre-match feeling and a proper warm-up.
“There are so many little hurdles you have to overcome and it probably goes unnoticed to many, but when you've not done it for so long, nine or 10 months, it's a process that you have to re-train again."
Gomez and Van Dijk both missed a large part of the previous season. They both made their returns in the pre-season game against Hertha.
Virgil then featured in a recent friendly match against Athletic Bilbao at Anfield, while Joe started on Monday against Osasuna.
