Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero has heaped praise on Virgil van Dijk, admitting the Liverpool defender's physical attributes make him extremely tough to play against.
Van Dijk has impressed ever since his £75m move from Southampton in 2018, the Dutchman now regarded by many as the best defender in the world.
The 28-year-old was a key figure as the Reds won the Champions League last season and went on to finish second in the Ballon d'Or voting.
Aguero now knows Van Dijk well with Liverpool and Manchester City having been the two top teams in England over the past few seasons.
'We all know Van Dijk is one of the best centre-backs in the world. He's strong, tall, has an incredible body,' Aguero told El Chiringuito
'He's very strong face to face, he plays with his body. Also, given he is so tall, he has those long legs.
'It looks like he isn't fast but he is, because of his long legs – he can reach everywhere. Two steps from him are 50 for me!
'What I like the most is the way he is so smart when defending. He's not anxious when marking, he's very careful and patient. That makes it difficult for many strikers.
'In my case, I'm pretty fast and I like to dribble, so I need the defender to come. But if he holds he can wait for help from another defender. He's very good at this.'
theKingslayer
1147
Vvd:- Agüero is the most difficult to mark on the pitch Agüero:- Vvd is really one of the best defenders rn Great recognises great 🤝
Mokekrt
528
Every striker complain about Van dijks's body and physical, not quality and tackle toughness. he is a big guy, but not good enough his defensive skills.
Ernesta
489
haters says he runs from dribbling footballers like Arguero say he's not anxious when marking n very careful n patient... why rush ? That's Van Dijk for u
Muk4proo
370
Even legends regard him high but still there are stupid people who just want to criticise him by terming him overrated