The Dutchman has been a hit at Anfield since he arrived and the Liverpool legend believes that his skill makes his team-mates improve around him
Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk is “the Federer of football”, according to former Reds stars Jamie Carragher and Graeme Souness, and the best centre-half not just in the Premier League, but beyond it.
Van Dijk has been a major success on Merseyside since his switch to Anfield in January, helping to turn Jurgen Klopp’s side into genuine title contenders this season.
The 27-year-old played a pivotal role for his club in helping them to the Champions League final last campaign after his arrival and has carried over his good form into domestic and European competition across the 2018-19 season.
Speaking on Sky Sports ahead of Liverpool’s vital clash with Manchester United on Sunday, Carragher – who won the Champions League in 2005 with the club – and Souness, who captained the Reds between 1981 and 1984, both praised Van Dijk as pivotal to the club’s excellent form.
The former in particular lavished praise on how the former Celtic and Southampton man had improved the Liverpool defence, stating: “Every time someone plays alongside him, they look like a top player.
“That is the effect of a great centre-half. You think of Manchester United, [with] Vidic and Ferdinand, John Terry at Chelsea.
“Those back fours that they commanded is something.
“[It’s like] when you watch [Roger] Federer play tennis, he makes everything look easy, he’s always there. He’s like the Federer of football.”
Scotsman Souness further elaborated on the impact made by Van Dijk, stating that his sole contribution could be the difference between narrow defeats and silverware for Liverpool.
“Him – just him alone – has made such a difference to [them] from being challengers to a team that I think can challenge for all,” Souness stated.
“I know they got to the Champions League final last year but I think now, this time around, with him alone in the team, I think he gives them a great chance.
“I think he’s the best one out there that I can think of, I don’t think there’s anyone else that has all those attributes.
Asked if Van Dijk was the best in the Premier League, he added: “And beyond.”
A victory for Liverpool against rivals United will take them back to the top of the table after Manchester City usurped them on Saturday.
Bullockthesun
1
Only Liverpool fans and Real Madrid haters think someone other than Ramos is the best center back in the world. Just looked at what they’ve both achieved in their careers by 27, van Dijk’s age. The best trophy van Dijk has won is the Scottish premiership. Ramos had already won 3 international trophies, and everything on the club level besides the UCL. Just look at Varane who is younger than van Dijk and what he’s achieved. He’s maybe top 5 in the world but we all know who the king of center backs is.
Ndukwe77
1
great play simply the best cb in the world
Lighter007
2
Virgil van dijk's organisation in defence makeshim the best defender in the league. They've conceded only 7 this season and beat their big rival a good win for the reds.
Fresh Pepper
3
He is doing fine... what do you expect from a Cb that has The group of attackers in his team He will improve with them... Hope to see more of Him than the hype
Ernesta
0
The Waiter Of football. he is nothing. only helps him spirit and pressure football of Klopp.
Meaning ?
Patrick Myanmar
2
I have heard and seen enough too much of compliments to Van Dijk, just simply too much. Can't deny over his capabilities but I fear that these too much of compliments will kill him.
lebochimwas
3
What about Alisson
datsama
4
yes he is doing well so far but also he is far away from be coming the best cb in the world.
All4love55
3
And Alisson too after getting past him haha...
Alakiri
3
he is not afraid of any body nor mourihno or Lukaku
Alakiri
2
he is not afraid of any body nor mourihno or Lukaku.
Wezciopyz
1
what has he achieved? He has not even won any tiltle. He just compains about Ramos.There is nothing special about him.
puzbcdklpz
0
Hahaha please give this man a trophy for the joke of the year! Federer is a fenomenon in the tennis history!
blankie
0
Enjoy 👍
OK Good luck to Man United
TonyV25
0
Today I will watch Liverpool Vs Man United with Dad and brother
Enjoy 👍
blankie
1
Our club? 🤔 Aren't you a Barca fan?
Today I will watch Liverpool Vs Man United with Dad and brother
blankie
1
Our club? 🤔 Aren't you a Barca fan?
Yes, But I am crazy for Liverpool FC Tony
Mokekrt
1
The Waiter Of football. he is nothing. only helps him spirit and pressure football of Klopp.
TonyV25
1
Who is Rafael Nadal
Are you Joking? 😅
TonyV25
0
VVD well he is just a world class center back! 😀 Proud to have you play for our club Liverpool FC 😉👊
[image]
Our club? 🤔 Aren't you a Barca fan?
blankie
3
VVD well he is just a world class center back! 😀 Proud to have you play for our club Liverpool FC 😉👊
as_win10
1
Who is Rafael Nadal
RajputHitesh7
6
Sorry i have huge respect for him he is just fantastic player. But don't compare him with Federer is just class he is phenomena and best sportsman and my fav player. He is the reason many people watch tennis.