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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Sport
Caoimhe O'Neill

Chelsea star Tammy Abraham explains why Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk is the most frustrating opponent

Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham has admitted Liverpool powerhouse Virgil van Dijk is the most difficult opponent he has faced so far in his burgeoning career.

The Blues forward, who is currently on international duty with England, came up against the Dutch defender at Stamford Bridge last month.

Liverpool ran out 2-1 winners in that particular fixture and the in-form Abraham, who has scored eight goals in eight Premier League games, was left feeling frustrated when lining up against Van Dijk.

The 22-year-old explained: "He’s a beast. He’s just good at what he does. He’s experienced. I try to do a little… I try to use my tricks in my head but his understanding of the game is top drawer.

"It is to do with little things. Movement. My movement in the box, some defenders don’t pay attention to me - they are only focused on the ball.

"With him, it’s kind of both, he’s paying attention to me and the ball, knows where I am, knows where I want to go, follows me.

"It’s quite annoying for a striker - just leave me alone!"

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