International breaks give an opportunity to the local media to talk to players from their country, at least those fortunate enough to be called up to the national team.
Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk and Georginio Wijnaldum were part of the Netherlands squad for the European qualifiers against Germany and Estonia. The duo played the full 90 minutes in both fixtures and the midfielder scored a goal in each of those matches.
Dutch football magazine Voetbal International interviewed the Reds duo and they spoke about various topics related to the national team and the Merseyside club.
Jurgen Klopp guided the English side to European success last season and Wijnaldum explained “how difficult” it was for his side to win the Champions League.
Since then, Liverpool had added the UEFA Super Cup to their trophy cabinet and they sit on top of the table after four league games. Though there is excitement, Wijnaldum explains the German coach makes sure his squad’s feet are always on the ground.
“He emphasises that we need to make the most of what we have and at the end of the season, we will see what that yields. Our seasonal preparation was exactly the same as last year.
“Klopp is a coach who ensures that nobody coasts. Then he quickly brings you back to the ground. He demands maximum effort and concentration in every match, he really doesn’t ask for more.”
Klopp is seen as a passionate coach on the touchline during the games, but Wijnaldum explains there’s only one thing that makes his manager unhappy.
“Although the trainer is very passionate about everything, he is also pretty relaxed. That is very good for players. He won’t get mad at you soon. Unless you don’t do what you are good at,” he added.
Be warned, Liverpool players.
