Jamie Carragher passionately defends Virgil van Dijk, claims he's 'far better' than Nemanja Vidic

Jamie Carragher has launched a staunch defence of Virgil van Dijk following Liverpool's draw against Arsenal, claiming he's 'far better' than Premier League great Nemanja Vidic.

Liverpool and Arsenal played out a thrilling 2-2 draw at Anfield on Sunday as Roberto Firmino rescued a point for his side, heading home three minutes from time.

The hosts came from behind after the Gunners' explosive start to the match, with Van Dijk coming under fire for their opening goal.

He was unable to intercept Martin Odegaard's pass and failed to stop Gabriel Martinelli from scoring in the eighth minute, with fans savagely making 'Van Disney' remarks on social media.

But Carragher has jumped to the defence of Van Dijk amid criticism as he referenced John Terry and Rio Ferdinand, while stating the Dutchman is 'far better' than Manchester United legend Vidic.

He tweeted: "VVD is far better than Vidic, who was a top CB, but have you forgot his performances against Torres? Rio & JT had poor seasons in their career like all players, VVD is having one now.

"No CB in the PL era has ever had VVD’s impact on a team."

The former Liverpool defender also said Van Dijk has been the best player in the Premier League alongside Kevin De Bruyne.

In another tweet, he added: "Never mind the best CB in the league, he’s been the best player in the league along with KDB for four years before this one.

"We have never spoken about other CB’s being the best player before, that shows the level he was at."

In a third post about Van Dijk vs. Vidic, Carragher argued: "If you or anyone thinks Vidic is better than VVD you’re not watching the same game! He’s miles better!!"

Vidic starred for Man United during his nine-year spell, winning the league title an impressive five times.

He also won two Premier League Player of the Season awards during his storied career.

Van Dijk has a Premier League Player of the Season award to his name, too, winning the individual prize in the 2018/19 campaign.

Who is the better defender? Let us know.

Topics: Jamie Carragher, Nemanja Vidic, Virgil Van Dijk, Liverpool, Football

Nasir Jabbar

Nasir Jabbar is a journalist at SPORTbible. He graduated from Bath Spa University with a BA in Media Communications. He's a combat sport aficionado and has contributed to MMA websites AddictedMMA and CagePotato. Nasir has covered some of the biggest fights, while interviewing the likes of Conor McGregor, Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury and Darren Till. He's also an avid Bristol City fan.

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