Rio Ferdinand has claimed that Trent Alexander-Arnold ‘hasn’t looked convincing’ when Virgil van Dijk is out of the Liverpool team, as he told his own YouTube channel.
The Premier League legend claimed that what Van Dijk provides his teammates is ‘invaluable’ and makes his teammates ‘look unstable’ when he’s not there.
After a long-term knee injury last season, Van Dijk is slowing getting those miles under the clock and it’s showing in his side’s performances.
Not only are Jurgen Klopp’s side unbeaten this season, but they are wiping the floor with whoever dare comes in their way, both in England and in Europe.
Ferdinand was a stylistic defender during his playing days, just like Van Dijk is now, and the Englishman spoke about the importance the Dutchman brings to Liverpool.
“Van Dijk’s importance in that team is there for all to see,” said Ferdinand. “Huge player. Forget his own personal performance, he can go out there and be a 7 or 6 and a half out of ten.
“But what he gives to the other players in invaluable. The confidence that spreads when he’s in that team.
“You see that, when he’s not in there, other players look unstable. One of the centre-back, whoever plays, doesn’t look the same player.
“Trent hasn’t look as convincing sometimes when Van Dijk’s not in the team. I think it spreads in the team. He has a big impact.”
Before the international break, Liverpool faced their toughest test of the campaign when they were involved in an enthralling 2-2 draw against Manchester City.
Phil Foden caused the Reds numerous problems during that game, and on Tuesday night, they probably face their second toughest test of the campaign so far – although the European champions will have something to say about that.
The Reds will lock horns with Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, where they will be hoping to maintain their unbeaten start to all competitions and continue their free-scoring ways.
Van Dijk will come up against a Liverpool favourite in Luis Suarez, who is probably one of the most underrated forwards in Europe right now.
Liverpool fans know full well what the aggressive-natured forward is capable of and he will be looking to cause damage tonight.
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