Journalist Praises Van Dijk: “He coasts through games, it’s like he’s not even trying” | OneFootball

Journalist Praises Van Dijk: “He coasts through games, it’s like he’s not even trying” | OneFootball

Icon: Anfield Index

Anfield Index

·30. Dezember 2024

Journalist Praises Van Dijk: “He coasts through games, it’s like he’s not even trying”

Artikelbild:Journalist Praises Van Dijk: “He coasts through games, it’s like he’s not even trying”

Virgil van Dijk: The Calm Pillar of Liverpool’s Defence

The towering presence of Virgil van Dijk remains a cornerstone of Liverpool’s success this season, as highlighted in the latest Media Matters podcast on Anfield Index. Journalist Lewis Steele lauded the Dutch defender’s composure, consistency, and influence on and off the pitch, cementing his status as one of the best in the game.

Steele on Van Dijk: “Peerless”

Virgil van Dijk’s dominance in Liverpool’s backline was a key talking point in the discussion. Steele was unequivocal in his praise, labelling Van Dijk as “peerless” in the current football landscape:


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“There isn’t a defender out there that’s better than him. What Van Dijk brings to this team is just incredible.”

Steele emphasised that Van Dijk’s performances have been so consistently excellent that it’s hard to pinpoint any mistakes this season. His seamless ability to adapt to the demands of Arne Slot’s tactical approach has made him invaluable to Liverpool’s title charge.

Leadership Through Calmness

One of Van Dijk’s defining traits is the calmness he exudes, which resonates throughout the team. Steele explained how this composure underpins Liverpool’s defensive success:

“The main thing for me is the calmness he has, and I think that radiates across the pitch. If Liverpool are 1-0 down or it’s 0-0 at half-time, no one panics, and that all comes from Van Dijk.”

This leadership quality is irreplaceable, particularly in high-pressure games where Van Dijk’s assured presence provides a stabilising influence.

Defender Who Sets the Standard

Steele also delved into Van Dijk’s technical excellence, singling out his ability to anticipate danger, his aerial dominance, and his composure on the ball. Whether it’s his perfectly timed tackles or his intelligent positioning, Van Dijk consistently raises the bar for defenders in the Premier League.

“He coasts through games; it’s like he’s not even trying. That’s the level of control he has.”

Even during Liverpool’s recent victory over West Ham, Van Dijk found ways to showcase his versatility. Steele noted one moment where Van Dijk ventured forward, switching roles with Luis Díaz to take a shot:

“You could tell he was bored playing centre-back. He switched roles and drove forward like a midfielder.”

Artikelbild:Journalist Praises Van Dijk: “He coasts through games, it’s like he’s not even trying”

Photo: IMAGO

Hallmark of Greatness

As Liverpool march towards what could be a historic season under Arne Slot, Van Dijk’s presence remains a crucial factor. Steele argued that Van Dijk’s influence extends beyond the pitch, serving as a source of inspiration and assurance for his teammates.

“Week in, week out, Van Dijk is a 9 out of 10. He’s been faultless this season and is easily one of the Premier League’s standout players.”

Virgil van Dijk’s brilliance lies in his ability to make the extraordinary look effortless. As Liverpool chase silverware on multiple fronts, his calmness, leadership, and defensive mastery will be vital to their ambitions. In Steele’s words, Van Dijk is not just one of the best defenders in the world—he’s “peerless.”

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