Peter Henry
Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has reluctantly revealed that Liverpool centre-back Virgil Van Dijk is the player that has impressed him most so far this season.
The form of £75 million Holland captain Van Dijk has been one of the main reasons Jurgen Klopp’s side have won six and drawn one of their opening Premier League fixtures.
Manchester United legend Neville has enjoyed a strained relationship with Liverpool fans over the years, but he admitted that he just can’t deny how good Van Dijk has been at the heart of the Reds defence.
“Milner for Liverpool, who have been outstanding,” Neville told Sky Sports.
“Virgil van Dijk: outstanding. But Van Dijk – worryingly – has impressed me more than anybody. He’s just a fantastic central defender.
Neville went on to reveal other players that have impressed him this season, although he did rather bizarrely mention Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne, who due to injury has only actually made one substitute appearance so far this term.
“Luke Shaw at Manchester United,” Neville continued.
“I’ve been really pleased with him. I’ve got full belief in him and his talent. He just needs that break in terms of staying clear of injuries.
“Eden Hazard is a wonderful player. He probably is [the best in the league].
“David Silva I love. De Bruyne is brilliant. [David] De Gea has been one of the top players over the last few years.
“These are the type of players who have impressed me most.”