Centre-back Virgil van Dijk has transformed the qualities of fellow Liverpool defenders Trent Alexander-Arnold, Joe Gomez and Andy Robertson since arriving at Anfield back in January 2018.
That is according to Brighton & Hove Albion striker Glenn Murray, who has scored more than 175 goals during his career.
After being signed from Southampton for a fee north of £70m, van Dijk was under big pressure to perform for the Reds. However, it would be fair to say that he has surpassed all expectations, as he has turned himself into arguably the best centre-back in world football.
And it is not just his individual qualities that developed under Jurgen Klopp's watch, it is also the affect he has had on his fellow defensive colleagues, with the likes of Alexander-Arnold, Gomez and Robertson having all improved with the Dutchman alongside them.
Appearing on Sky Sports News, Murray said: "I think he's just a step above the rest and I think it's shown in Liverpool's success since he's joined the club.
"What once was a little bit of an uneasy defence, let's say, I think he's sured it up and he's bringing the best out of those around him, especially both full-backs and now Joe Gomez coming through.
"So he's just a fantastic footballer."
As well as singing the praises of Van Dijk and the rest of Liverpool's defensive contingent, the striker, who has netted just two goals this season, also spoke about the importance of the 2019/20 season being able to reach its conclusion.
Football right across England, of course, currently finds itself in shutdown mode, as the country looks to try and slow down the spread of the coronavirus outbreak.
On the importance of the season finishing, which could mean a lot to Liverpool and their Premier League title aspirations, Murray continued: "I think first and foremost all professional athletes and professional footballers want to finish the league," he added.
"Obviously it all depends on timings and about the virus and how quickly we can get over this.
"But for me I watched a couple of games, I think it was in Italy, without fans and the game's just not the same and I think we need to wait until we can fill the stadiums up.
"Make it a celebratory atmosphere and enjoy being in the stadium together because without the fans football is just not the same."
