An Ode To Andy Robertson: Liverpool's Consistent Scot

An Ode To Andy Robertson: Liverpool's Consistent Scot

For all the talk of the need for Liverpool to reinforce their defence with new signings, their most consistent players ply their trade in the area. Andy Robertson and Fabinho -- previously a defensive midfielder who is learning to play in the heart of defence on the fly -- have been the Reds standout performers so far in an attritional, compressed season. With the long term injuries to both Joe Gomez and Virgil van Dijk, the Champions' preferred centre-half pairing, …
Tactical Analysis: Van Dijk Shines as Reds Pass Turf Moore Test

Tactical Analysis: Van Dijk Shines as Reds Pass Turf Moore Test

The stage was set for Liverpool to drop their first points of their new campaign. No sooner had the referee ushered the ball towards the centre circle to kickstart proceedings, than Sean Dyche was seen gesticulating towards his players to kick the ball long towards the Liverpool defence. Why? Well, as Sean Dyche pointed out without any concern for subtlety, the sun was shining directly into the eyes of Liverpool's defence and keeper. The message was clear: hit early long …
Greatness Beckons for Player of the Year Van Dijk

Greatness Beckons for Player of the Year Van Dijk

For just the fourth time in 40 years, a centre-back has been named PFA Player of the Year, and he couldn't be a more worthy winner. Joining Gary Pallister, Paul McGrath and John Terry is Virgil van Dijk, following a season unlike many ever seen by a defender at Liverpool. When gushing over a player in the present, it is easy to get carried away and start rating him higher than his actual level merits. I loved Daniel Agger, but …
Majestic Van Dijk has Produced a Season of Greatness

Majestic Van Dijk has Produced a Season of Greatness

Even when Liverpool leave you tearing your hair out, Virgil van Dijk still manages to come away blameless. At Everton, the Reds played with the kind of intensity on show at Goodison Park last season, when thoughts were more on Champions League duty rather than derby affairs, as a drab 0-0 draw was played out. Last Sunday's performance wasn't of a team desperately trying to win the Premier League and return to the top of the table, with a lack …
Liverpool’s Record-Breaking Defence Still Being Underrated

Liverpool’s Record-Breaking Defence Still Being Underrated

It's late October and Liverpool have conceded three goals in the Premier League. Three! This was something that felt impossible almost a year ago to the day, as Dejan Lovren and Simon Mignolet were gifting Tottenham a 4-1 win. The Reds' defence looked irreparable and Jurgen Klopp found himself at the lowest point of his Anfield tenure, with a section of the fanbase even questioning his long-term capabilities in the role. What has happened since then, in particular, this season, …
Virgil Van Dijk is Overrated

Virgil Van Dijk is Overrated