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Stats show how Liverpool captain continues to lead by example

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By Siddharth Juyal

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk continues to lead by example as the stat from Squawka shows his aerial dominance

Virgil van Dijk continues to lead by example as Squawka shares the impressive stat displaying the Liverpool defender’s aerial dominance. This season, Van Dijk has regained the form that earned him the tag of the best defender in the world.

The Dutch captain faced criticism last season for struggling with the form that coincided with the club’s struggle with performances. Naysayers questioned his ability to regain the peak that he achieved before suffering the ACL injury in the 2020-21 season.

Nevertheless, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp showed faith in the Dutchman and appointed him as the new captain of the squad. Van Dijk repaid the faith shown by Klopp by demonstrating his leadership and qualities this season, playing a pivotal role.

Liverpool's Dutch defender #04 Virgil van Dijk celebrates after scoring his team first goal during the English Premier League football match between Liverpool and Luton Town at Anfield in Liverpool, north west England on February 21, 2024. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. /  (Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Liverpool’s Dutch defender #04 Virgil van Dijk celebrates after scoring his team first goal during the English Premier League football match between Liverpool and Luton Town at Anfield in Liverpool, northwest England on February 21, 2024. (Photo by PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

The 32-year-old has made 29 appearances in all competitions so far, contributing with three goals and two assists this season. He played a critical role in the recent comeback victory over Luton Town in the Premier League clash at Anfield.

Liverpool conceded an early goal against the Hatters, but Van Dijk’s equalizer allowed a stunning comeback for the Reds. They won the game 4-1 despite suffering heavy losses due to injuries to many senior team players.

Stat-based site Squawka used their official X account to reveal that Van Dijk has not lost a single aerial duel in the last four Premier League games. The Liverpool captain won every aerial duel against Arsenal, Burnley, Brentford and Luton Town to achieve the impressive feat.

Van Dijk‘s massive reputation subjects his every performance to micro-analysis due to the high expectations placed upon him. Many up-and-coming defenders in the world measure themselves against him, frequently comparing themselves to numerous world-class talents.

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The Liverpool captain needs to continue leading by example during the troubling time due to the injury crisis. The Reds will play Chelsea next in the Carabao Cup finals at the Wembley Stadium on Sunday.