Liverpool are looking for a new captain this summer after they allowed Jordan Henderson to move onto Saudi Arabia for big money.
Manager Jurgen Klopp did not want to lose his skipper but in the end, the lure of a transfer fee and huge wages for Henderson meant the deal was always going to happen.
Of course, Henderson leaving means Klopp has a decision to make on who his new captain is at Liverpool. There are a number of obvious candidates, but as yet, nothing has been decided.
But speaking to the media today out on their pre-season tour of the Far East, Klopp has told The Athletic’s James Pearce that he knows who his new captain is. The problem is, he hasn’t told his players yet.
The obvious choice for Liverpool is Virgil van Dijk. The Dutchman has captained the Reds one more than one occasion and it would be a surprise if Klopp opted for someone else.
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Beyond Van Dijk, Mo Salah is a good option given his influence, while the likes of Andy Robertson and Thiago are experienced and have leadership qualities.
RTK’s View: Van Dijk has to be the new Liverpool captain
Surely this is a no brainer for Klopp? Van Dijk is the main man in this squad still and he should be the next skipper.
The next best choice would be Salah but even then, you are adding pressure to a player who is quite happy going about his business and producing in the final third.
If it’s not Van Dijk, then Klopp will need to explain just why. But as it stands, the Dutchman will surely be the replacement for Henderson.
This feels a big season and summer for the Reds right now. With so much change, Klopp will know picking the right captain could have a massive influence.