Virgil’s resurgence has been a major lift for Liverpool

All is well in the world of Northern England, Liverpool beat their cross-town rivals in Everton comfortably and are fourth in the Premier League and just a point behind Manchester City and Arsenal. One player leading this resurgence is Virgil Van Dijk.

The newest captain of the Reds, Virgil Van Dijk, has become one of the most underrated defenders in the League so far. Shocking ?

Yes, a player who is one of the best defenders in Premier League History. After a year of coming back to earth last season, the narrative was that Virgil was “ too old” and “ washed”.

That narrative is surely changing in 2023-2024.

In 7 Premier League matches, Van Dijk is putting up World Class numbers so far this season.

Air duel rate: 81% success rate

Ground duel rate: 77% success rate

To put those numbers in perspective, the highest air duel rate ~ among teams~ is 58.1% in Chelsea. He has had a success rate over 50% in all 7 matches. He has teams fearing to take him on again.

Van Dijk’s football IQ and positioning is what has fueled this resurgence in form. Establishing a high line and trusting his co-partner to be in his place. With 6 chances created and a 92% accurate pass rate, Virgil is back being comfortable and casual on the ball.

Yet, his biggest trait is his leadership. The lack of depth in Liverpool’s backline has been a major talking point this season.

With Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez having a history of injuries, Van Dijk has taken youngster, Jarell Quansah under his wing.

As his play has been limited, when Quansah has been called upon, he has looked comfortable and stable. Earning himself his first English U21 call up. Virgil has clearly been in his ear at training.

The best trait a player can have is Availability. Van Dijk has played 12 games so far including 4 matches with Netherlands and 1 Europa League Match.

If Liverpool can keep a healthy and confident Virgil, this resurgence might become the norm once again. The defensive back line will be all the better for this.