Glen Johnson names the solution to Liverpool’s Van Dijk crisis

Liverpool fans fear not! Glen Johnson believes the loss of Virgil van Dijk won’t be ‘too much of an issue’ if a certain Fabinho steps up.

Losing valuable points in Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Merseyside rivals Everton was nothing compared to Liverpool’s loss of Van Dijk.

The Dutchman, who has been an instrumental member of the Reds defense in the last few seasons, sustained a knee injury following a terrible challenge from Everton keeper Jordan Pickford.

Liverpool confirmed on Sunday evening that Van Dijk needs surgery to repair the damage from his injury. No timetable was offered on a potential return to action, but it’s likely he’ll be sidelined for many months.

The report has led many to write off Liverpool’s chances of retaining their Premier League title this season. However, Johnson believes Fabinho could be a ready-made solution for Van Dijk.

The Brazilian normally plays as a defensive midfielder but has played at center-back several times for the club. His most recent appearance came in a 2-0 win over Chelsea on September 20.

“I personally think it will be Fabinho who slots in there,” former Liverpool full-back Johnson told The Mirror.

“We saw him do it a couple of weeks ago and he was man of the match, so he could be the one who slots in. As long as he can maintain that sort of level then I don’t think it will be too much of an issue.

“Teams will show a team like Liverpool respect, so they won’t be pressing all the time from the front.

“You need players at the back who can set the game up, and I think Fabinho can certainly do that, because obviously he’s very good on the ball and used to playing in midfield.

“Of course they’d much rather be going into games with Van Dijk, but I do think Fabinho can step in.”