Latest Liverpool news: Ki-Jana Hoever plans to play alongside Virgil van Dijk in the coming seasons

Virgil van Dijk has been excellent for Liverpool since making the switch from Southampton.

The Dutchman has helped Liverpool to become one of the best defences in Europe and has been at the heart of our title challenge.

Another Dutch defender, Ki-Jana Hoever could be the next big thing at Anfield. The 17-year-old made his senior debut in the 2-1 loss to Wolverhampton Wanderers in the FA Cup and has big plans for the future (h/t Mirror

“I hope that in a couple of years I can play next to van Dijk in defence.

“You can’t wish for a better mentor and tutor as a professional player.”

The younger Dutch defender also spoke about Van Dijk’s style of defending and how he keeps a map of what is going around him:

“There is a little detail in Virgil’s game – that I call the shoulder. He is always looking over his shoulder.

“He is always aware what is going on around him. He has his own game to concentrate on, but he is paying attention to everyone else too.”

Hoever praises Van Dijk

The 17-year-old believes that Van Dijk is the “best defender in the world” and added that it isn’t just the attackers in the team who are getting praise these days.

“People now understand and see the importance of great defending”, added Hoever.

The 17-year-old could get some games next season but there is a lot of competition for places in the first-team.

Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joe Gomez have become regulars under Jurgen Klopp, and are possibly two of the best in their positions.

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Hoever still has time to develop into a top defender and there is no one better than Van Dijk to guide him in the coming years.