John Aldridge: Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk back to best in Brentford win After injury struggles
Liverpool legend John Aldridge believes Virgil van Dijk produced his finest performance this season in the Reds’ 3-0 victory over Brentford on Sunday.
In his latest column in Liverpool Echo, Aldridge lavished praise on Van Dijk, stating the Dutch defender looked back to his world-class best after an underwhelming previous campaign.
“I thought Virgil van Dijk had his best game of the season and now looks back to his best after a difficult season last campaign.”
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The former Liverpool striker showed sympathy for Van Dijk’s issues last season as he worked to fully recover after his hamstring injury in January 2023 which kept him struggling for some time.
Aldridge recognizes it’s common for even top players to struggle to regain their previous levels immediately after an injury. But based on Van Dijk’s commanding showing against Brentford, Aldridge feels the imperious centre-back has now rediscovered his elite form.
Van Dijk was a towering presence at the heart of Liverpool’s defence, winning countless headers and expertly snuffing out the Bees’ threat.
With the Reds firmly in the Premier League title hunt sitting in the 2nd place of the Premier League table just a point behind Man City, having a restored Van Dijk at the peak of his powers is a massive boost to their chances.
The Dutchman is a true defensive general, bringing calmness and control to Liverpool’s backline. His quality and influence were clearly missed at times last season as he worked his way back from injury.
But Aldridge believes this showing against Brentford signals that Liverpool have their defensive cornerstone back to anchor potential silverware challenges on all fronts.
At his best, Virgil Van Dijk is arguably the world’s top defender. If he can sustain this level consistently, Liverpool will be extremely tough to break down.
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After an understandably up-and-down last campaign, Van Dijk once again looks the complete package. His physicality, technique, anticipation, and focus were all on full display against Brentford.
Aldridge understands it takes time to fully overcome a career-threatening injury like Van Dijk’s. But the early signs this season suggest Liverpool have their defensive talisman back operating at the peak of his powers.
