Liverpool’s record £75m signing was impressive. Given a surprise first start in this evening’s derby, the Dutchman gave an assured performance and even managed to score from a corner in the dying embers.
He was composed at the heart of the Reds defence and used his staggering height to win headers and build attacking play going forward. From the start he showed promise of being the defensive leader Liverpool so desperately needed as he gave instructions and directions, and bested Dominic Calvert-Lewin with his height.