Van Dijk Optimistic Will Recover Fast

LONDON: Virgil van Dijk is determined to get even stronger after Liverpool confirmed their defense needed knee ligament surgery following an injury in a match against Everton last week.

The center-back collided with The Toffees goalkeeper Jordan Pickford in the sixth minute of the Merseyside neighbors’ meeting on Saturday, and the England goalkeeper escaped punishment.

“This afternoon I met with an advisor to plan the recovery process following the incident. Now I am fully focused on recovery and will do anything to get back as soon as possible.

“Despite being disappointed, I remain confident that in the face of adversity there will be opportunities, and with God’s help I will return better, healthier than before,” Van Dijk said.

Van Dijk is a pillar of Liverpool’s rise under Jurgen Klopp who lifted the first English Premier League (EPL) trophy in 30 years last season

The Dutchman, who was named PFA best player last year, played in every Liverpool league match for over a year.