Speaking on the BBC Radio Five Live Football Daily Podcast, Jonathan Woodgate has been waxing-lyrical about Virgil van Dijk after yet another strong performance against Aston Villa on Tuesday.
The Dutchman was utterly brilliant against the Villans, and despite an early setback for the Reds, he stayed calm and made sure that the Merseyside club weren’t going to concede any further goals.
It’s fair to say that Woodgate was very impressed by van Dijk, stating that he was extraordinary against Villa, describing him as a Rolls Royce of a footballer.
What’s been said?
Woodgate had nothing but good things to say about van Dijk.
“I do have to say, the performance from van Dijk, for me, he was extraordinary, constantly in the right place at the right time, I just wonder where Liverpool would be without Virgil van Dijk, they wouldn’t be where they are now, he’s the ultimate centre-back, he has everything. He is a Rolls Royce, he is a pure Rolls Royce,” Woodgate said.
“He just never panics, he’s always in control of a situation, he never makes rash decisions, he’s constantly barking out orders but he’s never rushed or ever flustered and he’s so good to watch.”
Key
Aston Villa threatened Liverpool many times during the game at Villa Park, but due to van Dijk’s incredible influence at the back, the Midlands club couldn’t build on their brilliant start.
Yes, they had chances, but van Dijk’s calmness and leadership at the back meant that they were never going to get the better of Jurgen Klopp’s side.
It’s performances like this that have led Liverpool to three cup finals this season, and if the Reds are to triumph in any of their remaining competitions, van Dijk will surely be pivotal.
Liverpool are very lucky to have the Dutchman marshalling their backline.
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