A LOFTY GRAVENPERCH

Van Dijk tells newest Kop idol Ryan it's an honour to be held so high by adoring supporters

- BY JEREMY CROSS

VIRGIL VAN DIJK has told Liverpool teammate Ryan Gravenberch to regard pressure as a privilege.

Gravenberch is fast becoming one of the new darlings of the Kop following an outstanding start to the new season which has helped Arne Slot’s side charge to the top of the Premier League table.

The Netherlands international struggled to establish himself after joining Liverpool from Bayern Munich in a £34million deal in 2023.

The attacking midfielder endured a miserable spell with the German champions, where he lasted just 15 months following a switch from Ajax.

He then arrived on Merseyside and failed to make a major impact but last season he helped Liverpool be crowned champions. Yet in 49 appearances, he failed to score a single goal.

But he now has two in six games, including his sublime finish past Jordan Pickford to help Liverpool overcome neighbours Everton in a feisty derby.

Gravenberch is earning rave reviews, and Van Dijk admits his colleague will now be expected to maintain his levels of performance.