'Never looks worried': Troy Deeney blown away by Liverpool player he says is a 'monster' every week

Liverpool won 1-0 at Crystal Palace this weekend to continue their fine start to the season under Arne Slot.

A first-half goal from Diogo Jota ensured another win for the Reds as they continue to keep well within the title race alongside Arsenal and Man City.

Slot has been lucky in that he’s come in to a top side and despite only adding Federico Chiesa in the summer, things are going well.

Of course, Slot has been blessed by having some top players in the ranks like Mo Salah, Virgil van Dijk and goalkeeper, Alisson Becker.

This weekend at Palace, a number of those key players were crucial.

And according to Troy Deeney, it was the performance of captain Van Dijk that was really impressive.

Troy Deeney lauds ‘monster’ Liverpool man Virgil van Dijk

Speaking about Van Dijk for his latest BBC team of the week, Deeney lauded the Liverpool captain’s performance at Palace.

“Monster. Powerhouse. He never looks worried or concerned. The complaints about a penalty were daft, it was really good defending,” Deeney said.

“The player was never getting there and Van Dijk just made sure. It was another captain-like performance from the big centre-half, who Liverpool need to tie down to a new contract as soon as possible.”

Van Dijk continues to shine and new contract is needed

There was a period when Virgil van Dijk looked like being a touch over the hill but this season, he looks back to his imperious best.

Liverpool won the league comfortably when Van Dijk was at his best and with the skipper looking the business again, they’re right back in the mix again.

Van Dijk has won plenty of praise over his career and even this season, he’s been lauded by the likes of Gabby Agbonlahor for his performances.

If Van Dijk carries on as is, then a second Premier League title might well be on the cards for the Reds.