Liverpool colossus Virgil van Dijk was in action as the Netherlands took on Ecuador in Group A at the World Cup.
The 31-year-old was made captain by Louis van Gaal, and Matt Upson noticed something “interesting” about the Dutchman while commentating on the game for BBC Radio 5 Live.
What’s the story?
Well, Liverpool fans will know that Van Dijk takes no nonsense from his fellow defenders if they aren’t pulling their weight, while also looking very casual with his relaxed playing style.
It seemed to be doing the trick as the Netherlands went 1-0 up thanks to Cody Gakpo, although Ecuador pushed hard and fought their way back into the Group A clash, with Enner Valencia netted a 49th minute equaliser.
Van Dijk and his teammates then appeared to be rattled, as Ecuador hit the woodwork through Gonzalo Plata and looked more likely to grab all three points.
While watching the Netherlands take on Ecuador, Upson said: “It’s interesting watching Virgil van Dijk – he has a very laidback style and in that back three he orchestrates and looks like he coasts through the game. He’s doing a lot of gesturing, pushing people up the pitch and waving his arms around.”
The Liverpool No.4’s approach rarely comes back to bite him, although he was given a public dressing down by James Milner earlier in the season after Jadon Sancho scored with ease in Liverpool’s 2-1 defeat at Old Trafford.
Van Dijk’s casual attitude towards defending was apparent again for Ecuador’s equaliser, as he decided to stand off the ball and allow Pervis Estupinan to get a shot at goal, which Andries Noppert could only push into the path of Valencia for a tap in.
Liverpool No.4 Van Dijk not to blame
We know for a fact that supporters of Liverpool’s Premier League rivals will mock Van Dijk for his part in Valencia’s equalising goal, but in truth, the Dutchman was one of his nation’s better performers.
As WhoScored shows, the Netherlands international made six clearances against Ecuador, as well as two blocks, one tackle and one interception.
Van Dijk’s excellent passing range was also on show as he completed four of his trademark pings to get Van Gaal’s side on the attack.
Hopefully, Van Dijk will put in yet another strong performance for the Netherlands in their final clash in Group A against Qatar on Tuesday, which they now need to win in order to make sure of a place in the knockout phase.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
