The Dutch media today shares an interesting story about Virgil van Dijk, regarding the change of opinion that Ruud Gullit has had about the Liverpool defender.
The quotes come from Voetbal International, and show that the national team legend is now actually defending the Reds’ centre-back against recent criticism, whilst also backing himself for being part of that.
Gullit had previously made some harsh comments about Van Dijk’s performances as Oranje’s captain, and now claims that the situation has changed.
“And rightly so. He didn’t play well either, but he is growing back to his peak now. That’s the level you ask of him. That’s all I ask. He is also very good.”
With Van Dijk as their captain, the Netherlands will be playing Scotland and Germany in the coming days. They’re both friendlies in preparation for the Euros.
“I wouldn’t have criticised him if I didn’t think he was a top player Then you have no use for it. Now you do. And he is there again. He passes well, is more direct going forward. I think he just suffered from that bad injury. He also didn’t play well for a long time. If you see that, you have to say so. Now it’s different, then I say it too.”
The Liverpool defender has started in all Dutch national games for nearly two years, not getting any rest from his busy schedule with the Reds.
Following the League Cup title and elimination from the FA Cup, Jurgen Klopp’s side now focus on the Premier League and Europa League. After the international break, they return to the pitch on March 31at, in a match against Brighton & Hove Albion.
With Arsenal and Manchester City facing each other the same weekend, that could be an interesting fixture for the Anfield side.
