Van Dijk set to break long-standing Carragher record for Liverpool

That is a remarkable statistic when you consider the physical demands placed on a modern centre-back, especially one operating in a Liverpool side that has looked so open at times this season.

Our No.4 has already made 53 appearances in all competitions this campaign, which is his highest total for the club since playing 51 times in 2021/22.

Van Dijk’s consistency answers critics

Carragher recently backed himself to play alongside Van Dijk in a modern Liverpool side, saying he’d have had “not a problem” featuring next to the man he described as the best centre-back in the Premier League.

That debate was always going to interest supporters, because both players represent very different eras of Liverpool defending.

It also makes Paul Scholes’ recent suggestion that Van Dijk hasn’t been world class over the last two years look even more questionable.

The 34-year-old may not quite be the untouchable defender we watched at his absolute peak, but he remains the leader Liverpool rely on more than anyone else at the back.

If Van Dijk overtakes Carragher’s minutes record against Aston Villa, it will be another reminder that greatness isn’t just about peak level, it’s also about turning up again and again when the team needs you.