'We decided' - Manager says that Liverpool star has left international duty early

Ronald Koeman believes that it ‘makes sense’ for Virgil van Dijk to return to Liverpool rather than remain with the Netherlands.

Van Dijk has been ruled out of his country’s Nations League encounter against Germany tonight because of suspension. The centre-back was sent off for two yellow cards in a 1-1 draw against Hungary last week. He received two bookings within three minutes - firstly for dissent and then committing a foul.

The Netherlands captain had planned to remain with the squad and watch the Germany game. But after holding discussions, it was decided that van Dijk would head back to Merseyside earlier than expected.

Koeman told reporters: “Virgil was a bit too quick with his answer that he would stay. That is a fine attitude, but when you see what players have to do in matches these days, it makes sense to send him home. We decided that afterwards.”

Van Dijk’s suspension means that he will get a full week of rest ahead of Liverpool’s return to action against Chelsea at Anfield on Sunday. The Reds skipper has been in imperious form for the Premier League leaders so far this season. Van Dijk has been part of a defence that has conceded just two goals in their opening seven league games - boasting five clean sheets.