In Focus: Van Dijk back to his best as Reds mount title bid

Virgil van Dijk has not been immune from criticism, despite his brilliance for Liverpool in recent years.

The 32-year-old had a below-par season in 2022-23, as the Reds missed out on a top four finish and leaked goals with uncharacteristic regularity.

But Van Dijk has looks close to his imperious best this term.

Liverpool have let in just seven goals in seven Premier League games and frustrated Tottenham for long periods last weekend despite going down to nine men.

Ahead of today's trip to Brighton, we take a closer look at the Dutchman's recent performances.

Imperious in the air

Going into this weekend, only two players — Wolves' Mario Lemina (14) and Crystal Palace's Cheick Doucoure (16) — had made more interceptions than Van Dijk in the Premier League this season (13).

The Netherlands international also ranked seventh in the division for aerial duels won (20) and 10th for clearances completed (29).

Liverpool's No4 has not lost a single challenge in 2023-24, highlighting his continued importance to the Reds' rearguard.

Eye for a pass

Liverpool's defensive record is undoubtedly impressive, especially considering they have received a league-high four red cards this term.

Van Dijk has played his part in that by using his vast experience to marshal his defensive partners.

The ex-Southampton centre-back continues to be a key player for Liverpool in possession, too — completing 222 passes over his five league appearances, with an accuracy rate of 92.12%.

And with four chances created and two assists to his name, Van Dijk is far more than just a defender.

Leadership responsibility

Van Dijk was named as Liverpool's club captain after the departure of Jordan Henderson.

And his comments after last weekend's controversial defeat at Tottenham suggest that he has quickly taken to the role.

He said: "I was proud to be captain of this club, proud to lead this team and proud of the supporters who backed us to the hilt when so much was going against us.

"That collective spirit can only serve us well going forward.

"Yes, the points are gone for good but there is nothing stopping us from using the positives and the biggest one for me was definitely the way that we all stuck together.

"Again, the result went against us, but in so many ways this was Liverpool FC at its defiant and determined best."

Defiance

Liverpool will need more defiance if they are to challenge Manchester City for the Premier League title this season.

But with Van Dijk on form and the balance of the team looking much healthier, Klopp's side are certainly one of the contenders after a promising start.

Only three teams have conceded fewer Premier League goals this season, suggesting that the Reds are not totally reliant on their attack.

The immediate priority for Van Dijk and his team-mates, though, will be to bounce back from the loss against Spurs with a victory over Brighton this afternoon.