Virgil van Dijk admits he was “sad” Jordan Henderson left Liverpool – but believes the Reds are in much better physical shape moving into this season than last term.
Van Dijk was appointed last week as Liverpool captain, replacing Henderson. Henderson left to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq and link up with the former manager in the role, Steven Gerrard.
Henderson spent the last seven of his 12 years at Anfield as captain and became the only English club captain to lift the league, European Cup, FA Cup, League Cup, and Club World Cup.
Van Dijk has said he would wear the armband right now if he could guarantee similar success.
“Obviously we won everything together, and I was very sad to see him leave, to be honest,” said the Holland international. “But that’s football, that’s life, and he has the right to do that in this case. He made that decision, but if I can be as successful as he was as a captain then I would sign (up) for that immediately.
“It’s step by step. I’m looking for consistency from our side, winning games, winning them the hard way at times, finding a way and creating a positive atmosphere where we all do it together. That includes the fans as well. That’s how I want to attack the season and give everyone the assurance that we give everything for one another. Hopefully we will be successful.”
