Richard Keys slams ‘dreadful’ Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk in Premier League
Richard Keys has blasted Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk, saying the Reds skipper has had a “dreadful” season.
Jason McAteer named the Dutchman in his Premier League team of the season alongside Arsenal centre-half William Saliba.
However, Keys felt Gunners defender Gabriel deserved a place instead of Van Dijk.
Speaking live on beIN Sports (19 May), Keys said: “Van Dijk? Are you having a laugh? You think that [Van Dijk and Saliba] is a better partnership than the two Arsenal boys together? I think he’s had a dreadful season.”
Has Virgil van Dijk had a bad season for Liverpool?
While it is possible to level some criticisms at Van Dijk this season – as it is for virtually any player – it is difficult to argue that he has had a “dreadful” campaign.
The most significant shortcoming is perhaps his low tackle success rate of 57.5 per cent, but the Dutchman has always been a defender who aims to shut down opposition attacks without having to commit and stick a foot in where possible – he built a reputation as the best in the world in his position by defending in that style [FotMob].
The rest of Van Dijk’s numbers present a glowing report of his influence on the side in possession.
In particular, the centre-half has been a monster in the air, winning 3.97 aerial duels per 90 in the Premier League this season at a success rate of 81.4 per cent – extremely impressive figures [FBref].
The 32-year-old has also been superb at moving the ball up the field, recording an avergage progressive passing distance of 536.43 yards per 90 in the Premier League this term.
It is possible to argue that another defender could be included ahead of him in a team of the season draft – but Van Dijk’s campaign has certainly not been “dreadful”. As he prepares to link up with compatriot and incoming head coach Arne Slot, the defender will hope to produce an equally assured 2024/25 campaign.
In other Liverpool news, a report says the Reds want to sign Anthony Gordon from Newcastle.
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