“What matters now is what comes next. I’ve spoken many times about what is required at this club – hard work, humility, togetherness, consistency – and that applies just as much in the not-so-good moments as it does in the good ones.
“We’re certainly not panicking, but we also need to be open and honest with ourselves. We know, as a group, that there is room for improvement in our performance levels, and that is what we’ll be striving for.
“But we also know the quality in this dressing room, the strength and character this group possesses. It’s up to us to show that in the coming days and weeks.
“A lot of our players, myself included, had a good and productive time away with our national teams, and now we’ll look to return to club action with a positive mindset, ready to attack the many challenges ahead of us.
“Those challenges will be tough, of course, but also very exciting, in my opinion. Like I say, as players we want to be involved in the biggest games against the best opponents, and I know you all feel the same as supporters.
“I know that you’ll be there for us, supporting and pushing us on. We aim to be at our best, and we need you to be exactly the same, starting this weekend.
“Together, let’s get to work.”