Van Dijk Explains Why Young Teammate is Now Thriving at Liverpool (Kerkez)

Published: February 15, 2026 | Empire of the Kop

In a revealing post-match interview following Liverpool's dominant 4-0 victory over Newcastle United at Anfield, captain Virgil van Dijk praised young left-back Milos Kerkez for his rapid adaptation and thriving form under manager Arne Slot. The Hungarian international, who joined Liverpool amid defensive injury woes, has quickly become a key asset in the Reds' title charge[3].

Van Dijk highlighted Kerkez's mindset as the pivotal factor. Despite not being initially available for selection due to injury, Kerkez proactively contacted the club early in the week. "He saw how many injuries we've got and how many problems we had in our last line," Van Dijk explained. "He called me in the beginning of this week saying I want to come back earlier because I want to help the team[3]." This self-driven commitment impressed the skipper, who noted it exemplifies the squad's hunger.

Kerkez's post-match comments further underscored his confidence. After Liverpool scored 10 goals while conceding just one in their last two games, he emphasized the team's prowess "in both boxes" and on the ball, especially post-set pieces[3]. Van Dijk echoed this, pointing to Kerkez's sharpness against tricky opponents like Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo in a recent clash with Manchester City. "When Semenyo is coming in the middle, Milos Kerkez has to follow or a midfielder has to take him, so you are never comfortable and you always have to be on your toes[4]," Van Dijk said, crediting the 22-year-old's vigilance.

Under Slot's "we want more" mentality, Kerkez has shed early teething issues, including a turning-point goalkeeper error in the City defeat[6]. Van Dijk stressed the collective process: second-half dominance shows progress, but the squad remains unsatisfied[4]. Kerkez's acceleration—fueled by leadership, injuries, and Slot's demands—positions him as thriving, bolstering Liverpool's backline amid fixture pile-ups like the upcoming FA Cup tie vs. Brighton[1][2].

Van Dijk's endorsement signals Kerkez's long-term role, with fans buzzing over the "statement win" mindset propelling Liverpool's ambitions[3].

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