Ex-Liverpool FC star-forward John Barnes believes Virgil van Dijk is still to be considered amongst the best centre-back’s in world football despite the Dutchman’s recent showings falling short of the exceedingly high expectations of many.
The Liverpool FC defender was at fault for gifting Leeds United a second goal during his side’s 4-3 victory over the Premier League new-boys last weekend. Van Dijk’s feeble touch on an aerial ball allowed Patrick Bamford to score an equalizer past Alisson in the opening third of the game.
However, Barnes argued that despite the 29-year old Dutch international looking a bit shaky against Leeds, it is possibly the player’s first below-par display in the Liverpool FC shirt since signing for the club in 2018.
“It was a shaky performance from Virgil, but that the first shaky game he’s had with Liverpool, so I wouldn’t read too much into that.
“Obviously, it’s not ideal when you concede three goals, but it’s a one off. I can’t see Liverpool’s defence being weak for the rest of the season.
“Opening Premier League games always see some interesting results and performances, so I won’t read too much into that at all. He’s still one of the best centre-backs in the world.”
The former English international also commented upon Liverpool FC’s requirement of another first-team centre-back option in the ongoing transfer window following the departure of long-serving Dejan Lovren. But Barnes added that there was not a rigid need on Jurgen Klopp’s part to sign another defender to improve his squad depth for the forthcoming season.
“There’s no need to panic.
“With [Dejan] Lovren leaving, they might want another defender, possibly.
Real Betis star Aissa Mandi’s name continues to be linked with a switch to Anfield, despite Liverpool FC’s talks with the La Liga outfit reported being on the halt recently.
