Liverpool Defender Dejan Lovren Dismisses Van Dijk Speculation & Turns Attention to Fitness Work
Liverpool defender Dejan Lovren has dismissed speculation linking Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk with a move to Anfield, and turned his attention towards preparing for the coming season.
The Croatia international's 2016-17 campaign was hampered by injury and inconsistency, with Jurgen Klopp unable to establish a regular defensive partnership.
Liverpool attempted to sign powerful Dutchman Van Dijk earlier in the summer, and after failing with their first effort rumours have resurfaced of another potential approach.
SUNDERLAND, ENGLAND - JANUARY 02: Dejan Lovren of Liverpool looks on prior to the Premier League match between Sunderland and Liverpool at Stadium of Light on January 2, 2017 in Sunderland, England. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
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But speaking to the Liverpool Echo, Lovren insisted that whoever is or isn't is brought in is none of his concern.
“I can’t talk about that," he said. "I am just concentrating on Liverpool and my fitness. I think the biggest thing is to improve my fitness. It is pre-season but the most important thing is to be free of injuries. I want to be 100%.
“I just need some consistency. Last season something happened like an injury or illness and then it was two steps back and I needed a good run to be back in shape so I am preparing myself as best I can.
LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 06: Dejan Lovren of Liverpool applauds supporters following the International Champions Cup match between Liverpool and Barcelona at Wembley Stadium on August 6, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
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“I have said many times I am very proud Liverpool believe in me and they have given me a chance to work here. It is a pleasure to be with such a talented squad.”
Lovren featured as Liverpool drew 1-1 with Wigan on Friday, a friendly which was notable for impressive performances from new signings Mohamed Salah and Dominic Solanke.
“We saw (Salah on Friday) and we will see more of his qualities," Lovren said. "He needs more time as he’s only had six days with us and everything is completely new (but) I think he will be perfect in this system.
“I think they (Salah and Solanke) have their qualities and Jurgen knows what he needs and what the team needs to improve.
“I think he made a good choice. These guys work really hard on the pitch and in training so it is always good to welcome such players like these."
