VVD:WHY I HAD TO PUT CLUB BEFORE COUNTRY
Reds defensive rock breaks Dutch hearts by ruling himself out of Euros
VIRGIL VAN DIJK has revealed he took the tough decision to miss this summer’s Euros because he wants to prolong his Liverpool career.
The Holland international defender admitted he is “gutted” not to be going after working so hard to overcome the serious knee injury he sustained in the Mersey derby back in October. Anfield boss Jurgen Klopp said for his star defender, realistically there was never going to be a miracle, with “common sense saying there was no chance” of him being fit for the summer.
Van Dijk explained that despite the obvious pressure for him to lead his country into the Championsip, he was guided in his decision by medical advice which suggested coming back next season would be better for his long-term fitness.
“It’s hopefully a big, big 18 months at least with the club, but also with my country because we’re trying to go to the next tournament after this as well and – that starts in September,” said Van Dijk.
“I have come to a decision that I had to make. I feel physically it is the right decision that I’ve decided not to go to the
Euros and to go into my last phase of rehab during the off-season.
“So the full focus will be on pre-season with the club and that’s a realistic goal, so I am looking forward to that.
“It is the right decision for this time and hopefully for the future as well.”
Klopp was at pains to point out that the centre-half is aiming to be back for full