'Psychologically he’s not in the same place': Danny Murphy believes Van Dijk's injury has had long-term effects

Former Liverpool midfielder, Danny Murphy expressed his concerns over Virgil van Dijk, claiming that his injury in 2020/21 season still has some effect on his form. He also believes Van Dijk will eventually return to form in a matter of time.

"He’s not up to his level. Before his injury he was arguably looking like one of the best centre-halves we’ve ever seen.

"The injury he’s come back from, although he’s not had problems in missing games I think psychologically he’s not in the same place. What I mean by that is not wanting to be as physically engaged with players and tackles, although he had the studs one at the weekend.

"I think there’s maybe a little bit of staying out of trouble. You could argue the way he plays he doesn’t get himself in that much trouble anyway. But there is always that thing in the back of your mind when you’ve had a bad injury I think.

"We are again talking about someone who has set ridiculously high standards and even when he’s dropping below them at the moment he’s still brilliant compared to a lot of other centre-halves.

"I don’t think it helps having continually different centre-halves, I don’t think it helps that Fabinho in front of him hasn’t been at his best and when you’ve got him, Jordan Henderson and Thiago Alcantara in front of you dictating play then you’re defending less.

"It’s another case of the cream rising to the top, he’ll be back.”

Source: TalkSport