Premier League News: Van Dijk insists Liverpool never questioned Nunes after Southampton brace

Virgil van Dijk says Liverpool “never doubted” the quality of Darwin Nunes after the striker’s fortunes soared recently.

Nunes endured a disappointing start to life at Anfield following his big-money move from Benfica, picking up a straight card against Crystal Palace in just his third appearance under Jurgen Klopp.

However, the Uruguay international is starting to make headway in English football; his two goals in Saturday’s 3-1 win over Southampton took him to nine for the season.

“We never doubted its quality, but obviously when you have such a price tag and goals don’t flow the way you want, it’s good. [he has shown character] and I think he did very well,” Van Dijk said.

“He has all the qualities for a modern striker. There’s a reason we bought him and he’s maturing, he’s patient and keeps his head down and plays and that’s his credit. Hopefully he can keep scoring and remain important to the group.

“Obviously he learns how we want to play, he learns what we expect from him, he plays a bit on the left, but he also has a free role that goes to the center.

“It takes time. It’s a new team, a new environment, a new country, a new language, so it’s completely normal for him that he needs a little more time. [to settle in]but there is no doubt that the quality is there and the goals will follow.”

Van Dijk also praised goalkeeper Alisson who made a string of impressive saves to keep Southampton at bay during the Anfield victory.

The Dutch skipper also highlighted the character of Roberto Firmino, who opened the scoring against the Saints after failing to make the Brazil squad for the World Cup.

“[Alisson is] important for the group on and off the pitch,” Van Dijk added. “We don’t want him to have to make saves in the first place. He should have done it [against Southampton] and he was outstanding.

“Brazil is a very good team, they have two of the best goalkeepers in the team and in my opinion the best goalkeeper in the world is Alisson.

“I think Bobby [Firmino] should be inside, but who am I to say that? He took it to the chin, all you can do is recover and be ready for the rest of the season and I think he will do that.”