Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain names Liverpool's strongest player that's like being 'hit by a train'

When it comes to talent in the Liverpool squad, Jurgen Klopp has an embarrassment of riches.

Whether it’s the skill of players like Roberto Firmino or Mohamed Salah, or the passing ability of Thiago Alcantara, the Reds don’t struggle in too many departments.

And in regards to the strongest player within the champions’ squad, many would place Virgil van Dijk very close to the top of the list.

The former Southampton defender has become one of the best centre-backs in the world under Klopp, with his commanding strength adding to his unerring ability to be one step ahead of any forward he contends with.

Van Dijk has become one of the best central defenders in world football since signing for Liverpool (Getty Images)

But according to those that come up against him in training on a daily basis, he isn’t the one that teammates fear going head to head with.

Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain and Andy Robertson were asked by Sky Sports who should have the best physical stats in this year’s FIFA game and while they disagreed on their answers, both suggested it wasn’t van Dijk.

First Robertson said: “You don’t want to run into Milner in training,” before Oxlade-Chamberlain replied: “Sadio is the strongest man ever, what does he weigh? 70kg or something? And it’s like being hit by a train.”

That doesn’t mean that they don’t rate the Netherlands international, who has been sorely missed since suffering an ACL injury during last year’s Merseyside derby with Everton.

“A bad injury he’s got,” Robertson added. “We look forward to welcoming him back, but he’s definitely the best centre-back in the world, if not the best player."

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Robertson and Oxlade-Chamberlain both suggested Mane was one of the strongest in the squad (mirror.co.uk)

Oxlade-Chamberlain also suggested that van Dijk’s defensive colleague Robertson, is one of the best in his position – although he spoke in far less glowing terms.

“I'm saying he's up there,” he joked about his teammate. “And honestly, for a man with such bad technique and footballing ability I don't know how it's possible.

“I've played against him a good few times and it's horrible. With his touch and everything... I don't know – he makes it work for him.”