Former Red highlights why Van Dijk was a loss against Monterrey

Former Red Harry Kewell believes Liverpool lack a voice in the defence when centre-back Virgil van Dijk is not present.

The Dutchman missed the clash against Monterrey last night due to illness.

With defenders Joel Matip and Dejan Lovren currently out injured, the Reds were left with no choice but to play midfielder Jordan Henderson in the heart of the defence alongside Joe Gomez.

The Reds defeated Monterrey 2-1 thanks to goals from Naby Keita and Roberto Firmino. It was a tough evening for Jurgen Klopp’s side, as Monterrey took it to the pre-game favourites.

Regardless of the result, Kewell highlighted why Van Dijk was a loss against the Mexican outfit.

“When I watch Liverpool play, I see Virgil constantly talking to everyone around him,” Kewell told BBC Sport. “He is always communicating with his full-backs, and the people in front of him.

“Yes people talk about him being a great defender because he can play out from the back and is comfortable on the ball, but a defender’s first job is to defend – and, in the case of Van Dijk, it is to organise the rest of his defence too.

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LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 11: Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool tackles Napoli’s Dries Mertens during the UEFA Champions League Group C match between Liverpool and SSC Napoli at Anfield on December 11, 2018 in Liverpool, United Kingdom. (GETTY)

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“That is what Liverpool missed the most against Monterrey. No-one had his kind of defensive vision, or ability to spot danger.

“Despite their lack of composure at the back, they actually defended pretty well for the most part but one thing I would criticise was the goal they conceded.

“No-one saw Stefan Medina’s run to the far post, and once he had the leap on Naby Keita, there was no way Keita could defend it. After that, they did not really defend as a unit when the ball was in the box.

“I don’t see that happening if Van Dijk is on the pitch.

“Clearly, they need him back in the team to face Flamengo – if he is fit, Liverpool will be calm and comfortable at the back and everyone will be a lot more relaxed.”

Liverpool have been relatively lucky in terms of Van Dijk’s health and fitness since he joined the club from Southampton back in January 2018. He has hardly missed a game.

When the news filtered through that he would be missing the semi-final clash in Qatar last night, it was slightly concerning.

However, both Henderson and Gomez did well. Van Dijk should return for the final against Flamengo come Saturday.

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Source: anfieldhq.com