Having criticised the expensive signings of Paul Pogba and Neymar Junior in the past Jurgen Klopp shocked football fans with the £75m (seventh most expensive player in football, most expensive defender) , purchase of Dutchman Virgil Van Dijk this winter from Southampton. To illustrate better it is good to know that the transfer market is already inflated hence the huge amount paid for him is not any fault of his.
Having seen Liverpool pay such huge amount , Van Dijk silenced his critics last night with the winning goal in the Merseyside derby against Everton in the FA Cup as Liverpool progressed to the next round . What sets him apart from the rest of defenders of his generation isn't his defensive abilities but rather his composure and control on the ball which makes him an attacking outlet for a team which priorities pushing from the back . Even when closed down the Dutchman has a bursting pace and ability to hold unto the ball which is rare for a defender. On the other hand, he can also pick teammates in the other half when given the freedom . Such is his quality that he could walk into any team in the EPL as he was wanted by Manchester City and Chelsea during the summer.
At 26 years, the Dutchman still has so many years left in him to become one of the world best in his position and make the price paid for him a bargain. He is also a natural leader who organises his defence, often seen shouting instructions to his teammates when the need arises. Also £75m becomes a bargain when compared with the £49m signing of John Stones and £35m signing of Lindelof by Manchester United and City respectively.
Possessing an aerial ability, strength and playmaking skills it is easy to see why the player has been Klopp's priority since last summer.
Although one major criticism of the Dutchman is his lack of game time In recent times having played only 12 league games last season and 21 last two seasons due to a succession of injuries. Which if managed properly by Liverpool shouldn't be an issue.
No comments:
Post a Comment