Virgil van Dijk reckons Andy Robertson is the best left-back in the Premier League as Liverpool prepare to do without their star turn.
The Scotland skipper will miss the Champions League clash with Porto due to suspension as the Reds eye a place in the semi-finals.
Van Dijk loves playing with his team-mate but didn't spare him from a ribbing when asked by the media if Robertson will be missed during the Anfield showdown.
The pair have forged a brilliant partnership down the left for the Premier League title challengers and adored by the Kop faithful.
The former Celtic star has been credited with Jurgen Klopp's side becoming solid at the back but he believes the 24-year-old deserves praise as well.
But first, he poked fun as he addressed the media ahead of the pivotal clash on Tuesday night.
Van Dijk joked: "We won't miss him at all!"
But the Dutchman gave a smile and a nod before waxing lyrical about the marauding full-back.
He added: "Of course he is going to be missed. Together with myself we have been playing in the back four most of the games.
"For me personally he's having an amazing season. He is the best left-back in the country.
"We are definitely going to miss him but it is how it is."
