Virgil van Dijk remains a key figure for Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool despite a squad overhaul.Jordan Henderson, Gini Wijnaldum, James Milner and Fabinho are former players of Van Dijk.
It may hurt them, but Liverpool’s new midfielders may have a higher ceiling.Although not as effective as their predecessors, Van Dijk said the new players have been “very good” and is enjoying the “different atmosphere” around the team.
Speaking to TNT Sports after Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Everton, the captain attributed their good preparation to Liverpool’s early season form.”We took a short break and then came back,” explained Van Dijk, who felt “tired” and “disappointed” after last season.
“The most important thing is to find harmony!” ?”The pre-season went very well. We had a good training camp in Germany and the commercial tour went very well. I’m glad I did this.”At the club we feel a different atmosphere, a different energy. “Of course there have been changes, but there have also been changes in our game.
We have different players of different quality. We are trying to adapt a little bit to football. I think it works very well.”Liverpool cannot become dominant overnight and many of their players are still inexperienced.
There will be no players like Dominik Soboslay, Alexis McAllister or Ryan Gravenbirch in Saturday afternoon’s Merseyside derby. Comparative experience hasn’t hindered Liverpool too much so far and Van Dijk’s prospects are positive for a summer signing.”I think the people who came here were very good,” added the Dutchman.
“Mac Allister may be in a position where he’s not sure he wants to play, but he has the quality to play anywhere in midfield. His yards per game are incredible. “Szoboszlai is a different breed.
His energy, he keeps running, he always wants the ball, he wants counter-pressure. That’s what we want. “Curtis Jones is doing really well and Ryan is getting his first derby start which is great to see as a Liverpool fan.
It may take a long time, but I think the most important thing is consistency.Van Dijk himself resurfaced last season with his abilities in doubt. Liverpool’s next game is against Toulouse at Anfield on Thursday night.
