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Fabinho has revealed that Jurgen Klopp told him to be more forthcoming when he replaced Virgil van Dijk in Liverpool’s win over Ajax.
After suffering an injury against Everton, Van Dijk appears to be out for most of the rest of the season, leaving a big hole in the heart of the Reds defense.
Yet Fabinho performed superbly against Ajax, clearing a shot from the line in the 1-0 win when he stepped in at the rear despite being a natural midfielder.
Talking to Viaplay Football after the game, the Brazilian explained that he has to play a more vocal role in the team in the absence of Van Dijk.
He said: “Tactically I have to always be prepared for long balls and try to organize the team.
“It’s not easy because I have to do a little bit of what Virgil always does and talk to the team and try to be a leader.
“Of course I am not Virgil, but I will do my best.
“It is very important to me that the team keep a clean sheet for the confidence of the team.”
And he added: “I try to do my best, of course the coach says I have to talk more with the team and organize it.”
“Sometimes I use phrases like second ball or get ready, or I tell the team to push well.
“I try to play this role as well and do my best.”
The Brazilian revealed that Van Dijk will be missed in more ways than one during his injury absence.
Describing the shock at finding out how long Van Dijk will be out, Fabinho said the imposing Dutchman’s presence in the locker room will be as much missed as his skill on the soccer field.
He said, “Personally, when I learned that Virgil was away for a long time, it was a bit of a shock.
“I think he is the best defender in the world at the moment and, above all, he is a leader in the team and in the locker room.
“He always maintains a good mood and a good atmosphere and of course we will miss him.
“We have to keep going, we have to try to do our best to win the games for him as well.
“We have Thiago, Alisson and Joel Matip injured at the moment, but they are trying to recover as quickly as possible.
“We have to play and try to win every game.”
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