Liverpool's star centre back Virgil van Dijk is 'too laid back' and 'has to improve', according to Holland boss Ronald Koeman.
Van Dijk has transformed Liverpool's defence since signing back in January for a world record fee — £75million — for a defender, helping them reach the Champions League final in May.
The 27-year-old is lauded for his effortless, almost casual, style of defending and has been the heartbeat at the back for Jurgen Klopp's side.
However Koeman, who signed the Dutchman in 2015 while in charge of Southampton, has urged Van Dijk to sharpen up if he is to further improve his game.
'I told Virgil within 30 seconds of the end of the game against France (the 2-1 defeat in the Nations League last month) what I thought,' he said.
'I know him so well – and that means I know where all his little faults are.
'Virgil has to improve, not a lot, but sometimes he is a little too laid back. That needs to change.
'There are moments as a defender when you should be no more than three feet away from the striker you are marking.
'And, particularly in Van Dijk's case, because of the strength and power he has he is too laid back.'
Koeman will look to see if Van Dijk has heeded his advice over the coming week, with Holland meeting Germany in a UEFA Nations League clash on Saturday before heading to Belgium for a friendly next Tuesday.