Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has refused to say he believes he is the best centre-back in the world but does believe he earned his move to Anfield.
The Dutchman has been imperious for Liverpool since joining from Southampton in a then world-record fee for a defender back in 2018.
He’s been a key player in the success under Jurgen Klopp since that point, with many believing he is comfortably the best defender in Europe at this moment in time because of his defensive abilities but also comfort on the ball.
That was a status he lost last year as he had to battle back from a long-term knee injury but has earned again this year courtesy of a number of imperious displays as Liverpool push for a potential quadruple.
Indeed, his return has seen a marked improvement from the Reds and while most are happy to declare him the world’s best, it’s a debate he won’t be drawn into personally.
“You should always keep faith in yourself,” he told Ziggo Sport, relayed by Voetbal Primeur.
“I don’t want to say I’m the best defender in the world, but I do think I’ve earned the move to Liverpool.
“I’ve always managed to keep a very consistent level. That’s the hardest thing there is. You always want to play at least a six.
“Especially because you play so many games, that’s hard, but I’m glad I’ve been able to do that for the past four seasons.”
