Following his early departure from the Netherlands camp after receiving a red card against Hungary, Virgil van Dijk has explained his decision to return to Liverpool.
Van Dijk is set to report to the AXA Training Centre at the beginning of next week after leaving the Netherlands squad on Saturday.
His departure came after a controversial dismissal during the 1-1 draw with Hungary on Friday night, where he received two yellow cards in the span of just three minutes.
Initially, Virgil van Dijk had insisted on staying with his international teammates to fulfill his responsibilities as captain.
However, he has now clarified why he chose to return to Merseyside.
In an interview with outlets including Voetbal International, the 33-year-old suggested that the decision was influenced by input from those at Liverpool.
“I wanted to stay with the team to give the lads my support, but now I have decided it is better to go home,” Van Dijk said.
“A lot has been said about the massive pile of matches we are playing in this period and all the travelling.
“This is a good moment to get some rest.
“With all the matches we have coming, I fully understand that the club thinks it is a good moment to get some rest.”
Liverpool supporters will likely agree with this ruling, and it may even resonate with Dutch fans, as Virgil van Dijk is one of the most vital players in Arne Slot’s squad.
Not only is he crucial, but he is also one of the most utilized players this season, with only Mohamed Salah logging more minutes on the pitch for the Reds.
With Alisson suffering a hamstring injury during the final game before the international break, Liverpool received a stark reminder of the toll a congested fixture list can take.
Slot can ill afford to lose another key player from his defensive lineup, despite having quality reserves like Jarell Quansah and Joe Gomez.
Van Dijk can now join Salah – who has withdrawn from the Egypt squad due to concerns over injury ahead of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Mauritania – in focusing on recovery and preparing for Sunday’s match against Chelsea.
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