Liverpool players Luis Diaz and Harvey Elliott have applauded Virgil van Dijk on Instagram after the defender was named in FIFA’s 2022 FIFPro Men’s World XI.
The Dutchman took the centre spot in the side’s defence alongside Achraf Hakimi and Joao Cancelo, with FIFA opting for an interesting 3-3-4 formation. This allowed for the inclusion of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Karim Benzema and Erling Haaland.
Taking to Instagram, the 31-year-old shared photos from the event, captioning the post ‘blessed’.
In the comments, players from both the Reds and the Netherlands national team sent their congratulations.
This included Diaz, who posted two clapping emojis, whilst Elliott added a heart alongside an applause emoji.
Diaz and Elliott congratulate Van Dijk
Jurgen Klopp was full of praise for Van Dijk following his selection in FIFA’s world XI.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference this morning, the German defended the centre-back’s inclusion after receiving criticism in recent months.
“It wasn’t based on the last four or five performances, but on the last year and it’s fully deserved,” said Klopp.
“He asked if he could go and I said of course. He was back last night. It’s great.”
The Netherlands captain may not have been at his peak this season, but by no means has he dropped significantly with his form.
The Reds look far better with him in the middle controlling the back-line.
When he was out injured just a few weeks ago, Liverpool couldn’t stop the opposition from scoring. However, since returning to the starting XI, the Merseyside outfit are yet to concede a single goal.
Therefore, this is quite telling, as it’s obvious just how much he adds to the Reds.