BARNES: 'DADDY' VAN DIJK'S STEPPED UP AGAIN THIS TERM

VIRGIL VAN DIJK reminds Kop legend John Barnes of former Anfield team-mate Alan Hansen in terms of the calmness he brings to the Liverpool defence.

- JOHN RICHARDSON

That shone out like a beacon as the Dutchman kept Manchester City dangerman Erling Haaland quiet in last

Sunday's 1-1 draw between the two Premier League title contenders.

Today it's Manchester United at Old Trafford which will consume Jurgen Klopp's committed skipper's thoughts_ And Barnes said: "His calming influence, especially in a defence flung together through injuries, was immense. It's in many ways a throwback to some of Alan Hansen's games.