Murphy on Reds’ Season: “Van Dijk More Important Than Salah” | OneFootball

Liverpool on Brink of Glory

Liverpool stand on the verge of lifting the Premier League trophy, needing just a single point from their clash against Tottenham at Anfield. In what has been a season to savour, boyhood fan and former Reds midfielder Danny Murphy shares his reflections on a truly remarkable campaign.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot’s Seamless Impact Powers Liverpool’s Title Charge

When Arne Slot was appointed to succeed Jurgen Klopp, most supporters would have accepted a top-four finish and perhaps a domestic cup. Few, if any, could have predicted the sheer brilliance that unfolded. Slot’s ability to integrate seamlessly, both on and off the pitch, has been beyond impressive.

Slot immediately struck the right chords. “When I heard him speak after Liverpool had beaten Manchester United 3-0 in September, it was clear he knew what he was doing,” said Murphy.

Slot’s presence has been a masterstroke. With the Premier League seemingly secured less than a year into his reign, he now holds a strong hand for shaping the future. With significant financial backing and deep knowledge of his squad’s strengths and weaknesses — notably regarding Darwin Núñez — Slot is poised to build something truly special at Anfield over the next few years.

Victory Over Spurs Marked Turning Point

While Liverpool’s victories against European giants like Real Madrid and Manchester City made headlines, Danny Murphy pinpointed the crushing 6-3 win away at Tottenham as the true statement of intent.

“I was working pitch-side for the game, and I saw a slick, hungry, clever, dangerous team that looked full of confidence and in tune with the manager,” Murphy recalled.

Critics may point to Spurs’ inconsistency this season, but few teams have been dismantled with such ruthlessness. That dominant display pushed Liverpool four points clear, setting the tone for an unstoppable march to the title.

Salah and Van Dijk Epitomise Liverpool’s Excellence

Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk have been monumental in Liverpool’s success story. While Salah’s goals and assists have been vital, Danny Murphy believes Van Dijk’s contribution edges it.

“I’d argue Van Dijk has been even more important because of his influence over others,” he noted. Young talents like Ibrahima Konaté and Ryan Gravenberch have thrived under Van Dijk’s leadership.

Photo: IMAGO

With Van Dijk now captain and the spiritual heartbeat of the team, his absence would be irreplaceable — something Liverpool experienced painfully when he was sidelined in past seasons. The club have smartly secured the futures of Salah and Van Dijk, but Trent Alexander-Arnold’s expected departure will pose a new challenge. Murphy sees Conor Bradley as the natural successor at right-back, aligning with Slot’s vision.

Gravenberch Shines as Liverpool’s Unsung Hero

Amid all the attacking fireworks, Ryan Gravenberch has quietly emerged as an indispensable figure. Transitioning from an attacking midfielder to a holding role is no easy feat, but Gravenberch has managed it with aplomb.

“His fitness and mentality have made him one of the main players,” Murphy praised, noting the midfielder’s resilience and tactical adaptation.

Liverpool’s previous interest in Martin Zubimendi now seems redundant thanks to Gravenberch’s progression, ensuring the Reds can channel resources elsewhere this summer.

Emotional End to a Historic Campaign

Liverpool’s current haul of 79 points from 33 matches underscores their dominance. Some may lament the absence of a neck-and-neck title battle with Manchester City, but as Murphy rightly states, Liverpool’s standard has matched that of any previous champions.

For fans under 35, witnessing a title triumph in front of packed stands will be a first. For others, it will be a bittersweet reminder of past glories. Reflecting on his own memories, Murphy said: “Whenever Liverpool win a trophy, I think back to my playing days and also standing on the Kop with my Dad, who is no longer with us.”

As the final whistle approaches, it feels almost inevitable. Murphy concludes, “I can’t see Tottenham spoiling the party.”