Van Dijk now the best defender by miles says Gullit

DUTCH legend Ruud Gullit believes compatriot Virgil van Dijk is “the best defender by miles” as he highlighted the changes made by Arne Slot to elevate the Liverpool skipper among the greats.

- By IAN DOYLE

And the Reds boss has been hailed for transforming Ryan Gravenberch into a defensive midfielder worthy of winning the Premier League title.

Both Van Dijk and Gravenberch have started every game as Liverpool romped to a record-equalling 20th championship.

Gullit has previously been critical of Van Dijk.

Now, though, the 62-year-old’s view of the current Dutch team captain has improved thanks to some subtle changes in his game.

"What he does better now is he goes forward with the ball," said Gullit. "Before, he got the ball and it was wait, wait and then give the ball to the left-back - and the left-back is already under pressure, the ball goes back.