Liverpool FC fan-favorite James Milner has heaped praise on Reds centre-half Virgil Van Dijk by stating that the Dutch international is one of the best defenders he has played alongside in his long and distinguished career in the Premier League.
Van Dijk’s presence in the Reds squad under Jurgen Klopp has been one of the major reasons behind the dominant showing by the Merseyside club in this season’s Premier League. The 28-year old, who captains the Dutch national team, has proved his worth from time to time in a Reds shirt by managing the back-four of Liverpool FC and establishing himself as a commanding centre-back in the process.
Milner, who is the deputy to the Reds skipper Jordan Henderson in the Liverpool FC squad, believes that Van Dijk is comparable to other great centre-backs he has played alongside such as Vincent Kompany, Rio Ferdinand, and Jonathan Woodgate.
This is certainly a huge claim made by Milner as Ferdinand and Kompany are regarded as one of the best centre backs to ever play in the Premier League. Moreover, both of them have won the Premier League title on many occasions, unlike Van Dijk, who would be hoping to get his hands on the coveted title when the Reds resume their 2019-20 Premier League campaign shortly against Everton FC.
Praising Van Dijk’s ability to read the game well, Milner added that the former Southampton FC player is a very good communicator among his teammates on the pitch. Such a quality is very essential in a good player, according to the Reds vice-captain. Milner also commended Van Dijk’s positioning during a game, and how the Dutch international is able to get the ball despite running far less when compared to other central defenders in the Premier League.
Van Dijk’s influence on the Liverpool FC squad has been immense since signing for them in January 2018 from Southampton FC. The £75 million paid by the Reds for him at that time seemed a bit much, but now the amount seems meagre when Van Dijk’s impact on the Premier League side is considered. His presence has also helped other Reds centre-backs such as Dejan Lovren, Joe Gomez, and Joel Matip to excel in their position and become better players on the pitch.
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- James Milner – Transition from Mr. Boring to Mr. Reliable in 5 Years
- Is Virgil van Dijk the Premier League’s greatest ever defender?
