Former Liverpool defender Stephane Henchoz believes Virgil Van Dijk is the Premier League’s top centre-back, and perhaps one of the best in the world too.
Van Dijk became the world’s most expensive defender when he joined the Reds for £75m in January, but few would question his value.
Liverpool’s defence has become one of the tightest in Europe, with no team conceding fewer league goals since the Dutchman’s arrival, not even the famous brick wall of Atletico Madrid.
Henchoz was an inspirational signing himself back in 1999, forming an effective partnership with Sami Hyypia and quickly becoming a fan favourite at Anfield.
Liverpool’s defence has improved immensely with the addition of Van Dijk
And according to Henchoz, no centre-back in the Premier League can match Van Dijk on current form.
“It’s totally changed because Van Dijk has come,” Henchoz told talkSPORT.
“And for me he is the best centre-back in the Premier League. He’s probably in the top three or five in the world.
“So the defence has improved immensely and Joe Gomez playing as a centre-back – he is a top class defender as well – I didn’t expect him to play so well.
“It’s a very, very good partnership.
Henchoz was popular at Liverpool
“Van Dijk is not short of personality. Since he arrived, he took over as the leader in the back four and the players playing alongside him have improved as well because they’ve got more confidence now and because Van Dijk is the one who takes the leadership.”
The Reds defence will be put to the test when they travel to Arsenal on Saturday evening – live on talkSPORT.
Jurgen Klopp’s men are unbeaten in the league and currently sit level on points with Manchester City at the top of the Premier League as they bid to end 28 years without a league title.
And Henchoz believes this could finally be their year.
“So far this season they’ve been great, they’ve been great to watch and obviously the results have been great so far.
“So I think, under Jurgen Klopp, we could see a progression every season and hopefully this season they can compete for the title.
“Maybe they can even win it.”
Credit: talkSPORT
via USAHint.com
No comments:
Post a Comment