Virgil van Dijk says he is grateful to be a team-mate, rather than an opponent, of Roberto Firmino after his dazzling display against Newcastle.
Firmino has been raking in the plaudits having inspired the Reds’ fightback to continue his fine run of form.
Van Dijk, who faces the Brazilian in training, says the forward’s movement makes him a nightmare for defenders to handle.
“He’s a very important player for all of us,” Van Dijk told BT Sport after the final whistle.
“I know how difficult it is for a centre-back if the striker is dropping – you don’t want to go as a central defender. He is making life difficult for any defender in the world.
“He is so good and I’m very happy he’s in my team.”
Liverpool were able to succeed where Spurs failed in breaking through the Newcastle lines after the shock of going behind.
“We knew it was tough to break them down, we analysed them especially against Spurs, how they kept defending and waited for their opportunities,” Van Dijk revealed.
“To go 1-0 down was not good but we reacted properly, we reacted in the right way and it was a good victory.”