I am going to take the opportunity each week, to review an aspect of the team and make this a focal point to predict and then assess the Red’s performances. Ahead of tomorrow’s clash with Ajax, this post will focus on Liverpool’s defence, enlight of Virgil Van Dijk’s ACL injury, and what possible options Liverpool have in this area.

Titles and cup finals successes are secured by a world-class defence. So, when the Reds began their search four years ago, they watched no fewer than 34 candidates play 15 games each. But when it came to those, who had the potential to develop, Virgil van Dijk was the stand out player. Van Dijk, has it all; aerial ability, physical prowess, speed, composure, and leadership which made the £75 million price tag value for money.

Before he arrived at Anfield, everyone knew his quality, but he has surpassed all expectations. Many pundits and football fans identify him as currently the best defender in the world. His accolades support these views; PFA Players of the Year 2019, Premier League players of the season 2018, and UEFA Men’s Players of the Year 2019 ( the first defender ever to receive this award). His list of honours is endless! He has been one of the key protagonists to Liverpool’s Happily Ever After under Jurgen Klopp. His addition before Countinho leaving gave players, the squad, and the supporters a sense that Liverpool would and could secure success.

After playing every minute of the previous 74 league matches for the Reds, Van Dijk is now sidelined after being forced off with ACL damage that requires surgery in Liverpool’s 2-2 draw at Goodison on Saturday. An injury, that could rule him out for the season.

In Van Djik’s 95 league starts for Liverpool, they have kept 44 clean sheets, conceding only 78 goals. When examining, the same number of games before his arrival, the Red’s let in 117 goals, denying the opponent 29 times. It’s clear his influence is obvious in numbers, but it’s also the psychological effect he has on both his team and Liverpool’s opponents.

There is no escaping the void, that Van Dijk’s absence will have on the team, and any team losing their spine of both Alisson and Van Dijk will suffer. Any Red’s fan will agree, that we have looked unsteady defensively since the start of this season. Undoubtedly, Klopp and his team will have to change the team’s approach going forward, using the options they have available to them.

With Van Dijk out of the team, I believe now more than ever, that this is Matip’s moment to step up and lead for Liverpool. Of course, it is important to note that German-born Cameroon has only returned from a knee problem, and went for a scan after Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Goodison. But for me, Matip and Joe Gomez, have to form a crucial partnership for Liverpool to succeed this season. Of course, this relies on both players remaining fit and injury-free. Their respective injury woes will be the most concerning factor to the management. But Van Dijk’s absence could turn Matip into a vocal defender, that can guide Joe Gomez with him this season. Red’s fan will be hoping for it.

Looking at various defensive alternatives, that Klopp could examine. One possibility could be Fabinho, who impressed in Van Dijk’s position in their 0-0 draw against Bayern at Anfield. Another option could be a three-man defence of Matip, Gomez, and Fabinho but that of course that would leave Andy Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold acting as wing-backs. Many Red’s fans might not agree with that team selection, arguing it doesn’t allow both players to unleash their attacking prowess.

But whatever defensive option Klopp decides to adopt this season. I’m sure Liverpool will be active in the January transfer market. Not at least, because Gomez and Matip are the only senior centre-backs Liverpool have, after Dejan Lovren’s departure to Zenit St Petersburg this summer. There is speculation now growing, that the Red’s are reportedly looking are Lepzig’s Dayot Upamecano and Turkish centre back Ozan Kabak as possible targets.

Categories: UncategorizedTags: Defence, Joel Matip, Liverpool, Opinion Piece, Virigil Van Dijk