This archive report was first published on 30 June 2019.
June 30, 2019
Virgil van Dijk, the Liverpool defender, has revealed the secret behind his incredible 2018-19 Premier League record. The Dutchman became the first defender since John Terry to be named PFA Player of the Year after an impressive campaign.
Van Dijk enjoyed a remarkable season on Merseyside, helping the Reds to within a point of their first title since 1990. Although they were pipped at the post by Manchester City, Liverpool did taste success on the continent, beating Tottenham in the Champions League final.
Speaking to Unisport, Van Dijk credited his education on the streets of Holland for his success. He said, "I have had the benefit of a lot of one-v-ones by playing a lot on the streets. I played in a lot of five-a-side games when I was younger and I loved to attack in those days as well, so you got a bit of a feeling how attackers might think in certain situations."
Van Dijk also offered advice to youngsters coming through, saying, "The best advice I've got is to stay humble, keep working hard and enjoy every bit of the way because before you know it, it is all going to be over and you do not want to have any regrets."
