Andy Robertson has confirmed the real impact Virgil van Dijk has had at Liverpool since joining from Southampton in January 2018.
Despite some reservations about his £75m price when he first made the move, the Dutch international has since gone on to establish himself as one of the best defenders in the world.
The 27-year-old was named PFA Player of the Year last season in recognition of a stellar campaign that saw him win the Champions League with the Reds, as well as finish as runners-up in the Premier League to Manchester City .
Many see van Dijk as a real contender to wrestle the Ballon d’Or from the grasp of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi later this year.
And as one of those playing in defence alongside van Dijk at club level, Scotland captain Robertson has spoken of how much of an impact the Dutchman has had on Klopp’s men.
“He brings everything, in my opinion,” Robertson said of the No.4. “He is one of the leaders in the changing room now, he is vocal.
“He is a lovely person off the pitch. He has been so crucial to what we do.
“The players around him have helped; Joel [Matip] has been magnificent when he has been called upon this season, Joe Gomez was different class at the start of the season, and Dejan [Lovren] has obviously played games and stepped up where he has been great.
“The central partnerships have been really good this season. Virgil takes all the plaudits but rightly so – he has been on a different level to anyone this season. What he brings on and off the pitch is special.”
Robertson will hope van Dijk can be as effective again next term as Liverpool look to challenge both at home and abroad once again.
