VIRGIL VAN DIJK has revealed that he introduced a new squad rule when he was made Liverpool captain.
The 32-year-old defender was handed the armband earlier this year after Jordan Henderson joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq and James Milner signed for Brighton.
Speaking about his appointment, he said: “This club has had some incredible captains over the years, leaders who would bring the best out of themselves and their team time and time again.
“So to be on the list with people like that is definitely not the kind of thing that I would have expected when I started playing.
“But the most important thing for me is that I am part of a team of leaders, individually, who find their own way to take responsibility no matter who is wearing the armband.”
The Dutchman then went on to reveal that he introduced a new rule immediately after being named captain.
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Before every match, all Liverpool stars must now gather in a team huddle on the pitch.
Van Dijk claims that it helps to build the atmosphere among the squad and the crowd.
As per The Echo, he added: “It was something that we did when I was a Celtic player.
“And I always liked it because I thought it set the tone for the game and it also gave the crowd a signal that we were ready to go.
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“It can also help the atmosphere with it being so close to the match starting, so if our fans want to join in by building up the noise and adding to the sense of anticipation I certainly won’t complain, even if it makes it difficult for me to make myself heard.”
Liverpool have enjoyed a positive start to the season following a disappointing 2022-23 campaign.
The Reds currently sit fourth in the Premier League table, just three points behind leaders Tottenham.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
