I can turn Harry into new Virgil
The Leicester manager worked with Van Dijk at Southampton in his one term in charge in 2016-17 and he says the defender’s progression led to Liverpool’s bid that summer.
The Reds finally signed Van Dijk in January in a world-record £75million deal for a defender and the Dutchman proved an inspired buy, helping Jurgen Klopp’s side to the Champions League final.
Now Puel – who has a reputation for nurturing talent since working with a teenage Eden Hazard at Lille – has turned his attentions to improving England man Maguire.
“Virgil has continued his progress with Liverpool,” said Puel, who will renew his acquaintance with Van Dijk when Liverpool visit today. “He has played great games and international games. He is one of the best defenders in the world.
“At the beginning when I had Virgil he was of course a good centre-back but he liked to wait deep without moving or going around the side to make cover.
“It was difficult with him at the beginning because I wanted the team and defenders to have the ability to defend with 50-60 metres of space at their back.
“But he understood why I wanted this change and this development for him and the team. After he had fantastic months with us at Southampton. Now he is comfortable on the ball, with good anticipation and is fast and powerful. He is good in aerial battles and is the complete player and defender for me.”
Maguire, who has 12 caps, produced some outstanding displays at the World Cup in the summer as England reached the semi-finals.
Manchester United wanted the 25-year-old, who was signed from Hull last June for a bargain £17m. But Leicester held firm and Puel has been delighted with Maguire’s attitude after claiming he is close to Van Dijk’s class.
Puel added: “Harry has the attributes to continue his development and is not far away. He showed it in the national team at the World Cup, which was a fantastic journey, and he can continue his development.”
Puel’s development continues at a club he inherited as misfiring former champions, with defender Christian Fuchs saying the title winners now face a battle to even make the team.
Only four Premier League champions started the 2-1 win at Southampton – although Jamie Vardy was suspended – and Fuchs’ only appearance came in Tuesday’s 4-0 Carabao Cup win over Fleetwood, where he scored a spectacular opener.
“The [title] win is already two-and-ahalf years ago now,” Fuchs said. “You try to always take the next step and evolve the team to build something new. Of course I want to play. Everyone in the squad wants to. If you are not playing then obviously you are not overly happy. “Whenever the gaffer needs me I am here and the performance against Fleetwood shows I am always here. I still feel great.” ❑KEEPER Kasper Schmeichel has signed a new five-year contract with Leicester.