Jürgen Klopp left Virgil van Dijk on the bench and Liverpool fans have to accept they will not see him make a real impact until next season. If you miss pre-season, you are always playing catch-up. Van Dijk was involved in a transfer saga in the summer and was also suffering from injury, and when he eventually played for Southampton this season he was not quite up to speed. Klopp has realised he’s got to get to the summer with Van Dijk and then really work him hard. The Dutchman will be the player Liverpool are praying for – just not until next season.





Van Dijk will be the player Liverpool are praying for, but not until next season REUTERS/JASON CAIRNDUFF

Firmino does it all

The longer Roberto Firmino has been at Liverpool, the better he has become. The Brazilian plays everywhere