Jurgen Klopp opens up on how Virgil van Dijk has settled into life at Liverpool: ‘He is on fire!’
‘He is on fire, really wants (to play), but we have to make sure he can perform’ Klopp said about Van Dijk after his team's late win over Burnley
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Your support makes all the difference.Jurgen Klopp has admitted that Virgil van Dijk is desperate to make his Liverpool debut in the FA Cup Merseyside derby against Everton on Friday.
A defensive error saw Liverpool fall behind in their 2-1 win over Leicester on Saturday as Van Dijk watched from the stands and despite him being eligible to play against Burnley, Klopp had previously indicated that he will ease the centre back in.
When quizzed on whether Van Dijk could feature against Everton later this week, Klopp kept his cards close to his chest but admitted that the defender is keen to feature.
“I don't know,” the German said. “We made a few tests. No rush. He is on fire, really wants (to play), but we have to make sure he can perform.
“Centre-half is a position which depends on the others in the pitch. That means you have to tune it so you work together.
“After Friday, we have a little bit more time. It is a long-time project. It is not important when his first game (is) but how many good games (he has).”
Van Dijk has meanwhile insisted that he is ready.
“I feel ready,” he told Liverpoolfc.com.
“Obviously I didn’t play the last two games for Southampton, but I feel ready. I am looking forward to getting stuck in, make sure I get my chance and just play.”
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