Watford forward Troy Deeney names the Liverpool player he hates playing against

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Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool are top of the Premier League with an impressive six wins out of six so far

It cannot be understated just how much of an impact Virgil van Dijk has made at Liverpool.

A lot of eyebrows were raised and understandably so when Liverpool paid Southampton £75 million in January to make the towering Dutchman the most expensive defender in the history of world football.

But Van Dijk has arguably been worth every penny since. The former Celtic and Groningen man has made a huge impact at Anfield, shoring up the Reds’ famously flimsy defence with his peerless reading of the game, aerial strength and impressive leadership skills.

And Watford striker Troy Deeney has admitted that he doesn’t exactly look forward to coming up against Van Dijk – though at least the Liverpool number four leaves a pleasant aroma in the air as he smashes centre-forwards into submission.

“I hate him. He’s too big, too strong, too quick, too good on the ball. He loves fighting,” Deeney told The Monday Night Club on BBC Radio5 Live (24 September, 5pm).

“Good head of hair. (He’s) one of those guys who sprays on his top as well so it smells lovely!”

Van Dijk has started every one of Liverpool’s six Premier League games so far and has started the season in imperious form. Jurgen Klopp’s side currently have a 100 per cent record and have conceded just twice so far.