Latest Liverpool FC News: Virgil van Dijk, aged 32, expressed his belief on Saturday that the Liverpool team will rise to the occasion and fill the gap left by Jordan Henderson.
He also mentioned that it would be a great privilege for him to become the captain of the team, succeeding Henderson.
Henderson, an English midfielder, recently transferred to the Saudi Pro League, and Van Dijk, a Dutch defender, is highly expected to assume the role of captain.
“Obviously he’s going to be a big miss for us as a player and definitely as a leader and a captain, someone who’s so important for us and successful at the club over the last years,” Van Dijk said in Singapore, where Liverpool face Leicester City on Sunday.
Henderson, James Milner, and Roberto Firmino have all left this summer, but Van Dijk believes that other members of the team will step up and provide leadership.
“Definitely we have a lot of players who can take that responsibility and have to take that responsibility, so I am confident that will happen,” Van Dijk added.
Van Dijk was hesitant to provide extensive details about Henderson’s successor as captain, but he expressed his strong desire to be given the permanent role if offered.
“Obviously I have captained the side multiple times over the last couple of years and it’s always a proud moment to do that. We’ll see what the future brings but it would be a huge honour to captain the side.”
“I know my decision already but I have to tell it first to the players… before I speak in public about it,” said Klopp when he was asked about the vacant captain position.
“It’s an important decision but more important is the general leadership group we create. It’s a big change for us.”
Despite the changes, Klopp maintained a positive outlook.
“Things have to change at some point, that’s clear as you can’t expect things to go on without any changes or developments,” he said.
“I can see a lot of positive signs in training and the games as well. The boys understand the situation and I’m really happy about that.”
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