ANDY: VAN’S WORLD NO.1

VIRGIL VAN DIJK as been hailed as the world’s best defender by teammate Andy Robertson.

Key to Liverpool’s title bid, Van Dijk (above) has helped the Reds keep their goals conceded to a Premier League low of 15 goals in 28 matches, with a record 16 clean sheets.

The Dutchman is Liverpool’s only outfield player to start every match this season and Robertson says there is no better centre-half in the world.

“He makes my life easier, that’s for sure,” said the Scotland captain (below). “To have him next to me, it makes everything so much easier.

“When somebody is running at you, you know Virgil is inside as he’s rarely out of position.

“He’s the best centre-back in the world, down to the way he’s playing and the confidence he’s got. And he’s still young enough that he can get even better. He works hard every day.”

Robertson claims Van Dijk is his player of the season because his performances are consistently high.

“If the season ended now, I would give him it personally,” he said.

“He’s so consistent and, if he puts the performances in during the last 10 games as he has, there’s no reason why he shouldn’t have that trophy.”

Van Dijk also showed he can be a threat by scoring twice in Liverpool’s 5-0 midweek drubbing of Watford.