“He has what it takes”: Van Dijk opens door to Liverpool's star captaincy talk | OneFootball

Captain says leadership starts with actions on the pitch

“He has what it takes”: Van Dijk opens door to Liverpool's star captaincy talk

Virgil van Dijk praised Dominik Szoboszlai and said the midfielder can become future captain for Liverpool.

Van Dijk sees leadership in Szoboszlai

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has spoken highly of teammate Dominik Szoboszlai saying the Hungary international has the qualities to lead the team in the future.

Szoboszlai has been one of Liverpool’s most reliable players in difficult season for the Premier League holders.

The 25 year-old has shown his value by playing in different roles including filling in at right-back when needed while keeping his performance level high.

Praise also from Mohamed Salah

Szoboszlai’s impact has not gone unnoticed inside the squad. Mohamed Salah also praised his teammate calling him “one of the best players in the world right now”

The Hungarian midfielder reached his 10th goal of the season during Liverpool’s 3-0 win over Brighton in the fourth round of the FA Cup.

He is now close to matching his best-ever scoring season when he scored 12 goal for Red Bull Salzburg in the 2019 /20 season.

Captaincy question ahead

Van Dijk explained that any decision about the captaincy belongs to head coach Arne Slot. However he made it clear that Szoboszlai is on the right path.

The Liverpool captain said leadership starts by setting example on the pitch something Szoboszlai has done throughout the season.

He added that there is still room to grow but that is a positive sign for the club’s future.

The situation is important as Andy Robertson, Liverpool’s vice-captain, is nearing the end of his contract which expires at the end of the season.

Injury concerns add pressure

Liverpool are also waiting for final medical update on Wataru Endo who suffered foot injury. The midfielder has been used at right-back due to injuries and has made 12 appearance this season, mostly as substitute.

Van Dijk stressed that Endo’s limited minutes do not reflect his importance. He described him as respected leader who always leads by example and admitted the injury is setback for the team.