Jaap Stam loves Arsenal defender but hails Liverpool star as ‘best in the world’

Jaap Stam was once regarded as one of the defenders in the world (Picture: Getty)

Jaap Stam has hailed Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk as the ‘complete defender’ and the ‘best in the world’.

Stam was once considered one of the best defenders on the planet, particularly at the turn of the century when he helped Manchester United win the treble.

As well as lifting the Premier League and Champions League trophies at Old Trafford, the former centre-back also won trophies in his native Holland with PSV and Ajax and in Italy with AC Milan and Lazio.

Given his brilliant career and huge reputation, the football world listens when Stam talks and the 53-year-old has been discussing some of the best current players in the world.

‘I think Virgil is the best defender in the world,’ Stam told Dutch outlet Algemeen Dagblad.

‘Nobody’s perfect, but with his charisma, physique, heading ability, passing ability, and leadership skills, he has the whole package.

‘In one-on-one situations, Virgil has only gotten better. He’s the complete defender if you look at what the future demands of a defender.’

A mural of Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk near Anfield (Picture: Getty)

Van Dijk has been arguably the best centre-back in the Premier League for the best part of a decade, helping Liverpool win two league titles, the FA Cup, Carabao Cup and Champions League.

The 34-year-old is keen to captain Liverpool to another league title this season, with Arne Slot’s side top after three games.

Stam also revealed his admiration for another Dutch defender in Jurrien Timber, a key member of Mikel Arteta’s squad at Arsenal.

Jurrien Timber in action for Arsenal (Picture: Getty)

Timber joined Arsenal from Stam’s former club Ajax in 2023 and has been a key player for Arteta since recovering from a serious injury.

Stam has ‘enormous respect’ for the way Timber has recovered from his injury setback and is impressed by his ability to play anywhere across the back-line.

‘When he went to Arsenal, you often heard: “Too young, don’t do it”,’ Stam added. ‘I have enormous respect for what he showed there after his serious knee injury.

‘Right wing, left wing, central, it doesn’t matter. He’s so good on the ball, positionally strong, quick, and powerful.’

Timber has featured in all three of Arsenal’s games so far this season and will return to action on Saturday when Nottingham Forest visit the Emirates Stadium.

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