Jose Enrique says Andy Robertson could have been a better fit for Liverpool captain than Virgil van Dijk
Former Liverpool defender Jose Enrique recently shared his opinion that Jurgen Klopp made a mistake in appointing Virgil van Dijk as the club’s new captain.
Enrique suggested that Andy Robertson, with his exceptional leadership qualities and unwavering commitment on the pitch, would have been a better choice for the captaincy role over Virgil. Here is what he told Grosvenor Sport via The Mirror:
“I think it was unlikely that the next Liverpool captain would have been anyone other than Virgil van Dijk but if I was Jurgen Klopp I would have given it to either Andy Robertson or Alisson.”
“He might not have wanted to give it to Alisson because he is the goalkeeper and you want it to be someone who is actually playing out on the pitch but I think he would deserve it.”
“I don’t think Liverpool really have another Jordan Henderson, but I like Robertson a lot. Robertson is a good leader and he always gives everything. Last year put me in a lot of doubt about Van Dijk and I know he had some injuries but last year I didn’t see the Van Dijk that I expected.”
Maybe it is him being loyal to his position (left-back), but Enrique’s viewpoint certainly sparks an interesting debate. While it’s true that Andy (29) has showcased remarkable leadership skills throughout his time at Liverpool, it’s important to recognize that Virgil is no less capable of leading the team. Moreover, in the absence of Henderson and James Milner, the armband went to VVD.
The Dutch centre-back has consistently demonstrated his leadership prowess both on and off the pitch, guiding the defence, organizing the team, and motivating his fellow players. However, Enrique’s perspective might overlook the fact that leadership within a football team extends far beyond the captain’s armband.
Skipper VVD
Liverpool boasts a squad filled with leaders, each contributing their unique qualities to the team’s success. Alisson, Robbo, Trent to an extent, Gakpo was the captain of PSV, Szoboszlai is Hungary’s skipper and of course, Mohamed Salah, captains Egypt.
The captaincy is, to some extent, a formality – a symbol of leadership that goes beyond a single player. Jurgen Klopp’s decision to appoint Van Dijk as captain likely considered not only his on-field leadership but also his ability to inspire and galvanize the team as a whole. The armband is just one aspect of the broader leadership structure that defines Liverpool’s playing style and team dynamics.
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While the captain plays an important role in representing the team on and off the pitch, there are several leaders within the squad who contribute to the team’s success. This collective leadership ensures that the team functions effectively and maintains a strong sense of unity.
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The captaincy is just one part of the leadership puzzle that defines this remarkable team. Almost all of our starting XI is capable of taking on the armband. Enrique provides an intriguing perspective, but best believe Klopp got it bang on.
