‘I’m going to put it out there’ – Exclusive: Phillips names ‘Surprise’ Van Dijk replacement | OneFootball

Kevin Phillips believes Jordan Henderson could fill in at centre-half for Liverpool in the absence of the injured Virgil van Dijk.

The former England international, speaking exclusively to Football Insider correspondent Dylan Childs, is adamant that the 30-year-old has the attributes to adapt and “plug the gap” left by the Netherlands captain.

Jurgen Klopp has had to cope without senior defenders Virgil van Dijk and Joel Matip this week, the former expected to miss the majority of the season with an ACL injury.

Fabinho has been selected to play at centre-half in their absence, the Brazilian starring in a 1-0 win over against Ajax on Wednesday.

While Gomez, the Reds’ only fit senior centre-back, was awarded Man of the Match in last night’s 2-1 win over Sheffield United.

When asked by Football Insider if he believed the pair could form a solid partnership this season, Phillips said:

“You would not say Gomez has started the season well but last night will have helped him and he will only get better and better.

“Hopefully Gomez and Fabinho can forge a partnership that can stand the test of time until Virgil van Dijk gets back.

“I am going to put it out there, I actually think Jordan Henderson could play centre-half. I think that he has that knowledge and that knowhow. He has the energy, the pace and that range of passing.

“I think he could surprise people and plug the gap left by van Dijk at centre-half.”

In other Liverpool news, Alex McLeish wowed by 23-year-old who could save Jurgen Klopp millions.