'They think only Virgil plays!' - Ibrahima Konate opens up on frustrations with playing alongside Van Dijk at Liverpool as he claims Dutchman hogs the limelight

Konate and Van Dijk form one of the most staunch defensive pairs in the Premier League at the moment. The Reds' central defenders have played a crucial role in the club sitting comfortably at the top of the Premier League table as Arne Slot's side have conceded only 27 goals in the 2024-25 campaign - the second fewest number of goals conceded after Arsenal.

The French defender, however, expressed his frustration at playing alongside a stalwart like Van Dijk as he accused the veteran defender of hogging all the limelight, albeit jokingly. He also heaped praise on the Dutchman while claiming he learnt a lot from his defensive partner.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the French defender said: "With Virgil, we know how good he is, how special he is, and what he’s been doing for years. He’s so good. I take a few things from him. He gave me a lot of advice when I came to the club. Like I’ve said previously, I will be better than you one day, that’s why I work very hard every day to achieve this.

"It’s crazy how many Man of the Match [awards] I could get this season. It’s very good to play with Virg because he is a very good player, but sometimes people who watch the game they think it’s only Virgil who plays. No, I am playing as well. I've had a great game as well, but no, but because it's Virgil. I’m not jealous, but watch the game, and it will tell you the truth."

After competing in the Merseyside derby on Wednesday in the Premier League, Liverpool will be next seen in action on Sunday as they take on Fulham at Craven Cottage in a league clash.