Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp believes Virgil van Dijk is ‘back to his best’
Speaking in an interview, as quoted by the Daily Mail, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp revealed that star defender Virgil van Dijk has fully recovered and found his rhythm ahead of a busy festive schedule.
Virgil van Dijk has developed himself into a world-class player over the years. In 2020, the 30-year-old finished second in the Ballon d’Or ranking, an astronomical achievement for a defender. His previous season was hampered by injury. However, the Dutch captain enjoyed an excellent start to the season and has featured in 19 matches across all competitions.
Van Dijk tested positive for Coronavirus recently. The 30-year-old missed four matches while in self-isolation. Jurgen Klopp recently revealed that the Dutch defender is back to training after recovering from the disease. However, the Covid-19 virus is known for taking a toll on physical and mental health. On top of that, the former Southampton player missed several training sessions.
Therefore, it was a big question whether he could give 100% to the team. But, in the recent press conference, Jurgen Klopp suggested that the Dutch defender has recovered well and could be ready to provide his world-class services.
“The rehab worked really well, so he came back in really good shape. He needed some rhythm, and it was important he got that rhythm. He’s now back to his best, for sure.”
However, the German manager understands that overusing a player who has just returned from a break could have long term consequences. Klopp revealed that Liverpool’s current depth in the backline could help the manager tackle the situation.
“What helps us a lot – and what helps him a lot – is that we have options around, so we don’t have to push him through in the moments when his body is giving a sign that he needs to step aside for a moment. That’s very helpful. That’s why the situation is very good.”
Last season’s defensive dilemma would still be fresh in our minds. Therefore, Jurgen Klopp would want to avoid such a situation during this term. However, Ibrahim Konate has become a successful addition to the squad while Nat Phillips and Joe Gomez have also proven to be vital squad players. At the same time, Joel Matip has been consistent throughout the campaign beside van Dijk in the heart of the defence.
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Van Dijk’s services would become essential against top teams. But Jurgen Klopp should continuously alter the pecking order to avoid injury complications amid a busy schedule.
Ever since he joined us from Southampton in the 2017/18 season, he has been one of the first names on the team sheet. And we could certainly use his help as we gear up to take on Brendan Rodgers’ Leicester City tonight.
