The Standard Chartered Men’s Player of the Month for the month of February is Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk.
For the first time, the captain is competing for the prize in the 2023–24 campaign. In the five games that he has helped the Reds win, including the Carabao Cup final against Chelsea, he has been in outstanding form.
Van Dijk was selected by Liverpoolfc.com voters ahead of his teammates Caoimhin Kelleher and Conor Bradley, who placed second and third, respectively.
After accepting the award at the AXA Training Centre on Friday, the No. 4 told Liverpoolfc.com, “It’s a huge tribute to all the boys who have stepped up for us to get the results, certainly.” Sure, of course I’m proud.
The Standard Charted Player of the Month for February is Virgil van Dijk.
Given all of the wounds, issues, and difficulties we had, the boys—especially the younger ones—really stood up, and they should be commended for that. Naturally, I was involved.
It is a privilege for me to lead the team. Anyway, it’s a great honour to receive a trophy. Needless to say, the outcome was exceptional, as was our tenacity and promptness. I’m quite respectful of the young boys.
“All we need to do is keep things the way they are at Anfield and the AXA [Training Centre].”
FC Liverpool: Virgil van Dijk is Jürgen Klopp’s calm opposite.
In all six of Liverpool’s games in February, Van Dijk not only led the defence but also scored twice at pivotal moments.
The center-half scored the game’s equaliser in the thrilling comeback victory over Luton Town, following victories over Burnley and Brentford.
Then, with the game-winning goal deep into extra time at Wembley in the Carabao Cup final, he won his first captain’s award as a Reds player.
Van Dijk of Liverpool acknowledges his bad start to the season | Reuters
Van Dijk continued, “I want to give my all both on and off the pitch and by being a dependable member of the squad in order to repay the team and the club for its importance.
“Playing at the highest level and for a team like Liverpool is a dream come true for me, and I really enjoy it.” I believe that my “job” is the best “job” there is.
The English Football League presents the Alan Hardaker Trophy to Virgil van Dijk.
Wearing the captain’s armband, he paused to consider grabbing cutlery and added, “Hopefully there will be many more.” It was special because the entire day was spent working with the gaffer and choosing the winner.
My family and the children’s presence made the day so much nicer. I will always remember that day since it was so incredible.
“However, at the highest level, there is a rapid turnaround and the primary focus is on the next game, which is something I also like.”