Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has revealed what Netherlands head coach Xavi Hernandez told him during talks over his international future.
Van Dijk has made a strong start to the season alongside new defensive partner Jeremy Jacquet, helping Liverpool keep three consecutive Premier League clean sheets.
The 35-year-old also featured for the Netherlands at the FIFA World Cup this summer and has continued to impress despite the demanding schedule.
There had been speculation that Van Dijk could retire from international football after the World Cup, but he has since committed his future to the Netherlands and was included in the squad for upcoming matches against Germany, Serbia and Greece.
Van Dijk discussed his decision to continue representing his country after Liverpool’s 1-0 win over Bournemouth before the international break.
“Obviously, it was a massive decision,” Van Dijk told reporters. “I had to feel the confidence and the combination of respect and joy and everything I wanted.
“That was from the first second the case, so the conversation didn’t need to be that long. “But it was very good, so I am really looking forward to meeting up for the important four games. Let’s make the next two years at least an amazing time.”
Before the decision was made, new Netherlands head coach Xavi Hernandez said he wanted to speak to Van Dijk in more detail.
“I spoke to him [Van Dijk],” Xavi said. “I will be in touch with him. I want to talk more about what his ambition is, his passion. And let’s see. But I need to talk to him.”
Virgil van Dijk subsequently held talks with Xavi and, in a new interview with De Telegraaf, revealed what was discussed.
“I needed a well-deserved holiday with my family and then an important meeting with the national coach,” Van Dijk said. “After 10 seconds, I already knew I could go through. That was just a very good meeting.”
When asked what Xavi said to convince him to make his decision so quickly, Van Dijk said: “That I am Virgil van Dijk. It is about trust, appreciation, and being important to the team.
“Physically, there is no doubt, but I also want to keep enjoying myself and feel the appreciation, and that is certainly there.”
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