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Virgil van Dijk to be RESTED for Liverpool vs Newcastle? Sky Sports pundits have their say
LIVERPOOL defender Virgil van Dijk must NOT be rested for the Boxing Day clash at home to Newcastle (3pm).
That is the opinion of Sky Sports pundits Alan McInally and Phil Thompson.
Van Dijk has started every game in the Premier League and Champions League so far this season.
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Liverpool have tougher games on paper than Newcastle coming up, with the visit of Arsenal on Saturday and a trip to title challengers Manchester City next Thursday.
The Reds are currently without two central defenders due to injury, with Joe Gomez and Joel Matip on the sidelines.
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He’s not expending too much energy in games. That’s why this fella can play in all of the games
McInally was asked if Van Dijk should be left out against a Newcastle side that are unlikely to be on the front foot at Anfield.
But his response was unequivocal.
“No, absolutely definitely not,” McInally said.
“No chance. I’d be tempted (to substitute him) if you were two or three up and you’ve really got the game (sewn up).”
Liverpool legend Thompson agrees with McInally about Van Dijk.
And he doubts whether the Dutchman ever needs a rest.
“I know what you’re saying but this fella cruises through games,” Thompson said.
“Most of the time he will stay back and keep everybody organised.
“He doesn’t go dashing about and ‘oh he drives through the middle’, he cruises through games.
“So he’s not expending too much energy in games.
“That’s why this fella can play in all of the games.”
Thompson and McInally got their wish as Van Dijk started the clash with Newcastle.