Watford striker Troy Deeney has raved about Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk, on the the Sports Breakfast, which was broadcast at 8am on TalkSPORT on 20th August.
Watford were actually the team who ended Liverpool’s unbeaten record in the Premier League this term, as they ran out 3-0 winners over Jurgen Klopp’s side.
Deeney had more success against Van Dijk than many other Premier League strikers, but he admits that the Liverpool defender has no weaknesses.
Deeney thinks Van Dijk is strong in the air, relishes a physical battle and is also comfortable with the ball at his feet.
And even when Watford beat Liverpool, Deeney still was amazed by Van Dijk’s performance.
“It’s normally Virgil! I can’t explain to you,” the 32-year-old said, when asked if there were any defenders he hated coming up against.
“The guy is 6ft 4, fast, has a great footballing brain, loves to have a fight with you. It’s everything, he’s got everything.
“We beat them 3-0 and he was doing his hair while he had the ball. I was like ‘that’s amazing’.
“We were winning and he was doing his hair mid-game, fair play to him! He’s very good.”
Deeney may not have to come up against Van Dijk next season, as Watford ultimately were relegated last term.
Deeney has been linked with an exit from Vicarage Road though, with his future up in the air.
Van Dijk, meanwhile, is set to play a key role again – as Liverpool look to defend their Premier League title.
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