Liverpool have been blessed with some iconic defenders over the years. We’ve had Alan Hansen marshalling the team to countless league titles. We’ve seen Jamie Carragher put it all on the line with his unwavering blood and thunder style. Now we are enjoying the talents of arguably the finest defender the club has ever seen and he’s come in for some high praise. Borussia Dortmund sensation Erling Haaland is the latest footballing figure to laud the irreplaceable Virgil van Dijk.
Transformative signing
Few signings in the modern era have had such a transformative impact on the side as Van Dijk.
The Dutchman has quickly established himself as the finest in his profession in world football.
Since his arrival in January 2018, success has swiftly followed.
Both the Premier League and Champions League have been locked in the Anfield cabinet, with Van Dijk the chief organiser and defensive lynchpin behind Liverpool’s global domination.
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He was more than unfortunate to have missed out on winning the Ballon d’Or in 2019.
Haaland on Van Dijk
It isn’t the first time Liverpool’s iconic No.4 has come in for praise, and it certainly won’t be the last.
He’s the best in the business, after-all.
Recently, Haaland has hailed Van Dijk, telling Norwegian newspaper VGt via beINSPORTS: “The best [centre-backs] are Sergio Ramos, [Virgil] Van Dijk and [Kalidou] Koulibaly. All three are very physical, but also very smart on the pitch. ”
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For a centre-back, there is no better than to be praised by one of your leading rivals in the game.
Haaland is regarded as one of the best up-and-coming talents in world football and for him to recognise Van Dijk as his toughest opponent shouldn’t be taken lightly.
The 29-year-old is already considered a club legend and if he maintains his sustained brilliance for years to come, he could be regarded as one of the greatest defenders the world has ever seen.
For Liverpool supporters, he is looked upon as a God. We cannot wait for his imminent return back to the pitch.
