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'The best in world': MOTD pundit Ian Wright has Liverpool claim and gives transfer verdict
MATCH OF THE DAY pundit Ian Wright says Virgil van Dijk is 'the best defender in the world'
Liverpool: Van Dijk performs INCREDIBLE skill in training
Van Dijk found the net as Liverpool downed Wolves 2-0 on Friday night to ensure they sit top of Christmas.
The landscape got even better for the Reds on Saturday when Crystal Palace stunned their title rivals Manchester City 3-2.
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That ensures Liverpool hold a four-point lead at the top of the Premier League with Van Dijk a crucial part of the fine run.
In the 32 games he's played under Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool have conceded just 17 times. Without him, Liverpool let in an average of 1.21 a game.
The performances have left Wright purring and he's hailed the decision to spend £75million on the centre-back.
"The goalkeeper has got to get a mention but Van Dijk has got everything," he said.
"When you consider the amount of top scouts who passed up on him, Southampton have got to get credit and Klopp has got to get credit.
"£75million now looks an absolute snip - he's just got everything.
"We are talking about the best defender in the world right now"
Liverpool star Virgil Van Dijk impresses Holland teammates
Sensing it's a big statement, host Gary Lineker said: "Would you go that highly?" Wright responded simply: "Yes, I would."
While fellow pundit Alan Shearer was too hailing Liverpool under Jurgen Klopp.
"They've been so impressive - 48 points after 18 games, unbeaten, they've only conceded seven goals. They're looking so, so impressive," he said.
"I went for City at the start of the season and I'm not going to change my mind unlike Wrighty who changes his every week.
"I think at some point they will have a blip when the Champions League starts again but they've been brilliant up to now."