Following Jordan Henderson’s departure this summer, Virgil van Dijk was made club captain for Liverpool, and Jurgen Klopp has praised the defender.
The Anfield manager, who spoke to the Liverpool Echo, was all love for the Dutch international, who took over as Liverpool’s permanent captain this summer after Henderson.
The 32-year-old has shown promise this year in both the on and off the ball, and Klopp has now stated that Van Dijk’s performance as captain and Henderson’s replacement has shocked him.
“I was very hopeful that we could deal with it but I was not sure,” the manager of Liverpool stated. “I’m really happy the way the boys have grown into it, especially Virgil.”
“Virgil is enjoying his new role as well, although he has liked being a part of the leadership group for the past few years. Ali is a born leader, Robbo, Mo, and Trent are all maturing into it.
“He doesn’t talk the entire week, but when he does, it’s important, and people pay attention.”
Van Dijk was the proper choice to captain Liverpool, made by Klopp
Selecting a captain for Liverpool is never an easy process, but this summer, Klopp could not have picked a better candidate than Van Dijk for the position.
This season, Van Dijk’s performances have significantly improved due to his new role. The Dutchman has accepted the armband with respect and dedication.
The Reds manager made a brilliant choice in appointing Van Dijk as Liverpool captain this summer, and the defender is undoubtedly back to his best at Liverpool.
