Liverpool can prove to people they’re not over-reliant on Virgil van Dijk

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Liverpool have the chance to show critics they’re not over-reliant on Virgil van Dijk against Chelsea.

Jurgen Klopp confirmed in his pre-match press conference that the Dutchman hasn’t trained ahead of the weekend clash.

The defender didn’t feature in Wednesday’s Carabao Cup clash at Anfield with the Blues.

He has been struggling with a rib injury aggravated against Southampton, and is currently touch and go for the Premier League encounter.

A positive spin

If van Dijk doesn’t make the game, then Liverpool have the chance to prove some doubters wrong.

Some believe that Liverpool are over-reliant on their club record signing.

Much has been made of van Dijk’s impact since joining in January for £75m.

He has shored things up massively, and his authority is clearly felt by those around him. Some say that without him, Liverpool will struggle.

A chance to silence the critics

Saturday’s game at Stamford Bridge is the perfect opportunity for the likes of Joe Gomez, Joel Matip or Dejan Lovren to step up.

If van Dijk doesn’t make it, then it’s a chance for the others to show the solidity the doubters believe is lacking without the imposing Dutchman – which has to be a good thing.

That said, any side would miss van Dijk.

It’s certainly going to be a tough ask for the Reds to keep a clean sheet at the Bridge.