Jurgen Klopp told Virgil van Dijk is similar to Liverpool FC legend
Garth Crooks likens Liverpool FC record signing Virgil van Dijk to Reds legend Alan Hansen
Virgil van Dijk shares some similarities with Liverpool FC legend Alan Hansen, according to BBC Sport pundit Garth Crooks.
The Reds signed Van Dijk in a £75m deal from Southampton in the January transfer window to make the centre-half the most expensive defender in the world.
Liverpool FC have improved immeasurably at the back since Van Dijk’s arrival after the 18-time English champions reached the Champions League final in May 2016.
The Reds eased to a commanding 4-0 win over West Ham United at Anfield thanks to goals from Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Daniel Sturridge either side of half-time.
Liverpool FC are sitting at the top of the Premier League table ahead of defending champions Manchester City thanks to their superior goal difference.
Former Spurs forward Crooks believes Van Dijk is very similar in style to Liverpool FC legend Hansen.
“Liverpool’s game against West Ham was no longer a contest after 55 minutes,” Crooks told BBC Sport.
“The home side were 3-0 up and their forwards had the Hammers by the throat. Meanwhile Van Dijk was telling his fellow defenders, in no uncertain terms, that nothing short of a clean sheet would do.”
He added: “That’s the difference between Liverpool prior to Van Dijk’s arrival and the team that currently exists. Moreover there’s something of the Alan Hansen about the way he conducts himself on a football pitch.
“Apart from the obvious stature, the Dutchman always looks composed, elegant and plays with his head not just his heart.”
Liverpool FC started their summer spending spree with the £39m addition of AS Monaco midfielder Fabinho.
The 18-time English champions finally recruited Guinea international Naby Keita in a £48m switch from RB Leipzig.
Switzerland international Xherdan Shaqiri moved in a cut price £13.5m deal from relegated Stoke City.
Jurgen Klopp addressed a big weakness in his Liverpool FC team with the world record signing of Alisson Becker from AS Roma.
