'Making big progress': Van Dijk says one Liverpool player is so much better than at the start of the season
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Rousing the Kop or go back to LFC Live.
Virgil van Dijk Explains Why Andy Robertson Deserves Credit for Big Progress Made by Milos Kerkez
Virgil van Dijk has praised Liverpool teammate Milos Kerkez for his remarkable improvement, crediting veteran full-back Andy Robertson for playing a key role in his development.[1][3]
The 22-year-old Hungarian joined Liverpool from AFC Bournemouth last summer in a £40 million ($54m) transfer. Kerkez endured a tough start at Anfield, facing criticism for early performances amid team inconsistencies. However, he has since excelled, particularly shining in Liverpool's 3-0 FA Cup fourth-round victory over Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday night.[1][2][4]
Van Dijk highlighted Kerkez's growth post-match: "I think it is pretty clear you definitely see an improvement. He is still so young and is getting used to being a Liverpool player—it is a lot more than kicking a ball on the pitch."[1] He emphasized the challenges of adapting, noting, "especially when the team has been inconsistent it's not easy to play your best games."[1]
Crucially, Van Dijk singled out Robertson's influence: "But with the help of Robbo [Andy Robertson] and the rest of the team and his own development I think he is making big progress."[1][3] Kerkez's standout display against Brighton underscored this, earning high ratings—7.8 from Sports Illustrated and 9 (Man of the Match) from This Is Anfield. He delivered a pinpoint cross for Curtis Jones' opener in the 42nd minute, unlocking a previously stagnant game, and was solid defensively while threatening with forward runs.[2][4]
Van Dijk also commanded the defense with a 7.3 rating, staying in control throughout.[2] The win propelled Liverpool to the FA Cup fifth round, with Jones' tap-in sparking a dominant second half against a lackluster Brighton.[2]
Additionally, Van Dijk backed Mohamed Salah, who scored and assisted, affirming his importance despite form dips: "Mo is still so important for us." On Salah's future, with one year left on his contract like Van Dijk's, he said, "I always want Mo to stay... we've been through the highs and not-so-highs together."[1]
Kerkez's trajectory, bolstered by Robertson's mentorship, signals a bright future for Liverpool's left-back options under Arne Slot.[1][3]
(Word count: 298)