Jarell Quansah breaks his silence on his struggles to return to the Liverpool squad after he was brutally tackled at half-time of the Reds' Premier League opener against Ipswich.

Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah says he is trying not to sink “too low” after what he admits has been a difficult season on a personal level.

The 21-year-old enjoyed a stellar campaign last year, playing 33 times for the first team despite making his debut at the end of August.

He was often chosen as a starting defender alongside Virgil van Dijk and earned a call-up to an England camp from Gareth Southgate.

He seemed to be going from strength to strength after starring in pre-season and starting the first league game of this season, away at Ipswich.

But he got hooked at half-time at Portman Road and has struggled for league minutes since.

In fact, that was one of three Premier League starts but, after making his Champions League debut in the 2-1 win over Lille this week, Quansah is keen to move on. “It was a very pleasant experience for me,” he said.

Jarrell Quansah is optimistic after making his Champions League debut against Lille this week

The Liverpool centre-back has played just 12 games under Arne Slot this season.

“I have worked very hard for my career and being able to play in the Champions League at Anfield is a dream come true for me. Every game is a learning process. I won't get too depressed if I make one or two mistakes. I just know that I need to learn.

'It's going to be a long run for me…hopefully. Try to keep it level, don't let the highs get too high and don't go too low with the lows. “Temperament is the most important thing for me or for a young centre-back, and learning from the players around me.”

Boss Arne Slot cited Quansah's lack of success in the matchup as a reason for replacing him at Ipswich and fellow defender Ibrahima Konate stepped up to form a formidable and long-lasting duo with captain Van Dijk.

From starting the season as a second-choice centre-back, Warrington-born Quansah was soon up to fourth, with Joe Gomez replacing Konate when the Frenchman missed around a month with a knee injury. Wataru Endo has also played there.

But Quansah is willing to maintain his confidence and play the long game. “I'm not going to sit here and say it's easy, it's always difficult,” he explained. 'But it's all about how you prepare, putting yourself in the best mentality and physical condition.

“It's not easy when you're not in the team, but you have to do everything you can for the team. Keep pushing. I'm always watching my game, whether I play well or badly. I'm not going to be the 'finished article' yet. I am my own harshest critic, I have always said that.

'I like to work on myself. I could name 100 things (to improve) that you wouldn't see. So I'm just working to be where I want to be in the future. I know it won't happen overnight. It takes hours and hours of work, that's what I'm willing to do.

'But I'm very proud (of playing in the Champions League). For me and my family. Obviously I couldn't listen to it much because of the booing! But it's definitely a dream come true. I'm trying to keep perspective on it.

The Dutch coach has preferred the pairing of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate at the back

Quansah was a regular starter alongside Van Dijk last season, making 33 appearances.

'When things don't go my way, I can remember nights like this. I will always have that. “I will always have it under my belt and I am grateful for the opportunity.”

Quansah put in an assured performance against Lille, completing 99 of his 102 passes (97 percent) and winning both duels he played. He also had more carries (34) than anyone else on the field.

Van Dijk, who Quansah openly said he studies regularly, added: “It's a season where Jarell can learn every day.” He is a fantastic young player and can only get better. You are in a great place to learn.

'When you have the opportunity to play, like tonight, you just have to show your qualities and play with confidence. Don't be afraid to make mistakes, because we all make mistakes. He did well.'