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“ I have to do what Virgil always does: be a leader ”: Fabinho reveals that Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has told him to intensify Van Dijk’s absence after starring in a valiant victory against Ajax
- Fabinho was Liverpool’s star man in their 1-0 win against Ajax
- The Brazilian started in the center of defense with Joe Gómez in the Netherlands
- The 26-year-old said Jurgen Klopp told him to intervene in Virgil van Dijk’s absence.
Fabinho has revealed how Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has approached him to help fill the void in the Reds’ squad after Virgil van Dijk suffered a major knee injury.
The 26-year-old Fabinho put on a superb road performance against Ajax in the Champions League on Wednesday night, returning to defense and joining Joe Gomez in the Dutchman’s absence.
In addition to producing a series of crucial tackles and blocks, Fabinho acrobatically cleared Dusan Tadic’s balloon off the line in the first half to ensure Liverpool’s continental campaign began with a victory.
Fabinho was excellent in defense for Liverpool when they beat Ajax 1-0 in the Champions League
Fabinho produced an acrobatic punt from the goal line to keep Liverpool level in the first half.
The Brazilian international, who usually plays in midfield three for Liverpool, said after the game that Klopp has told him to be more vocal on the field, especially when playing central.
“Tactically, I have to be prepared for the long balls and try to organize the team,” he told Viaplay. “It’s not easy, but I have to do a bit of what Virgil always does: talk to the team and try to be a leader.
Of course I am not, but I will do my best. It was very important for me and for the team to keep a clean sheet today because of confidence.
‘The coach told me that I have to talk more with the team, to try to organize the team. Sometimes a little was like “second ball”, “get ready” to try to press well. I try to be in this role too, I try to do my best. ‘
Van Dijk will almost certainly face the rest of the season on the sidelines after being rammed by the brutal opening challenge of Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford in Saturday’s Merseyside derby.
The Brazilian is usually in Liverpool’s midfield but could find himself in defense this season
Fabinho said his teammate Virgil van Dijk (right) is the best defender in the world
He leaves Gomez and Joel Matip as Liverpool’s remaining central centrals, but Fabinho has played in the position before, especially earlier this season when Liverpool beat Chelsea 2-0 at Stamford Bridge.
“When I learned that Virgil was gone for a long time, it was a bit shocking,” Fabinho admitted. First of all, I think he is the best defender in the world. And he is a leader in the team and in the dressing room, he maintains a good mood and a good atmosphere.
“We will miss this, but we have to go ahead and win the games for him.”
Liverpool are back in action in Saturday’s final Premier League game when they host Sheffield United at Anfield.
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