Van Dijk concern for Liverpool ahead of Tottenham showdown
Liverpool defender and captain Virgil Van Dijk is doubtful for this weekend’s Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur.
The Dutch defender sat out training all week, raising concerns about his fitness for the Anfield encounter.
There’s a glimmer of hope as manager Jurgen Klopp hinted that Van Dijk might participate in “parts of team training” today during his pre-match press conference.
However, the Reds’ boss remained tight-lipped, simply stating, “We have to see what we can do there.”
Van Dijk has been a rock at the back for Liverpool and returned to peak form this season following last year’s struggles.
The former Southampton man has been a mainstay in Klopp’s starting XI, making 33 PL appearances. He has helped Liverpool keep eight clean sheets, contributing two goals and two assists.
The 32-year-old has won 82% of his aerial and 65% of his ground duels this term while recording stellar passing numbers. He is by far the best defender in the world and will be a huge miss for the Reds if he cannot play.
Ibrahima Konate just returned from an injury lay-off and will likely be thrown straight into the thick of the action against Spurs if Van Dijk is unavailable.
The Frenchman will partner Jarell Quansah in the centre of defence.
There’s better news on the young defender Conor Bradley, who’s back in training after recovering from injury. However, Diogo Jota remains sidelined and won’t rejoin the group yet.
Klopp said, “Diogo is not in team training yet. Conor is.” Jota was sorely missed in the second half of the season. He struggled with a hip injury while Liverpool struggled to find their shooting boots in his absence.
Bradley will be happy to have recovered from the injury sustained during the 1-0 loss to Crystal Palace at Anfield, which kept him out for three weeks.
Liverpool have drifted off in the title race, but this game against Tottenham is a chance to make things right. It is an opportunity for revenge after Spurs’ controversial win in the reverse fixture.