"He's been a very important figure in my football career" - Virgil van Dijk on trait he's taken from working with ex-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp 

Virgil van Dijk has reflected on his time playing under Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool and explained how the German manager inspired him to become a leader. The Dutch defender spent six years with Klopp, who left Anfield at the end of last season.

The Reds won eight major trophies with Klopp at the helm, including the Premier League title and the UEFA Champions League. Van Dijk arrived in January 2018 in a £75 million deal from Southampton.

Van Dijk, 33, was a stalwart at the back for Klopp and replaced Jordan Henderson as club captain last season. He spoke to Sky Sports about the friendship he holds with his former manager and the role he played in his development:

"What a manager. From the very first day that I met him until obviously today, he's been a very important figure in my football career. And I would say in my life as well because it's still life-changing what he's done for me and my family."

Van Dijk has grown into a leader at Liverpool and took inspiration from Klopp:

"I think definitely the leadership (I've taken from time with Klopp), I think the fact you know as a leader you have to put others in front of you instead of being on top, you have to be the one that's always looking out for others and letting others go in front. So I think that's definitely a big thing and the hard work each and every day, never let a day go past I didn't give everything to improve. He's been very good."

The Netherlands international made 270 appearances under Klopp, scoring 23 goals and providing 12 assists. He was named UEFA's Best Player of the Year in 2019.

---

"A good way to success" - Van Dijk on how Liverpool differ under Arne Slot to Klopp

Arne Slot succeeded Jurgen Klopp (Image - Getty)

Arne Slot was given big shoes to fill when he replaced Klopp in the Anfield hotseat in the summer. The Dutch coach arrived from Feyenoord expected to need a period of transition, but he immediately got the Merseysiders on board.

Liverpool have made a scintillating start under Slot, topping the Premier League and UEFA Champions League tables. He's overseen 17 wins, one draw and one defeat in 19 games across competitions.

Van Dijk pinpointed what has changed under Slot, and he believes it starts with the hard work shared around the team. He said (via The Mirror):

"I think it is the work we put in and it starts up front. That is the most important thing. You saw Darwin (Nunez) coming on against Chelsea, winning balls on the edge of our box and that is a good sign. It's obviously a good basis to have because if you are defensively solid and you're not conceding many goals or any goals at all, I think that is always a good way to success."

Slot's Liverpool have been superb defensively, conceding just eight goals in 12 league games. If they beat Manchester City today (December 1), they will move nine points clear of second-placed Arsenal.