Van Dijk urged to keep improving

The 25-year-old has been outstanding for Saints since moving to St Mary’s from Celtic for £12million last year.

The Dutchman impressed again on Thursday when Puel’s side came from behind to beat Inter Milan 2-1 in the Europa League, scoring the equaliser and being a rock at the back.

Puel said: “I think Virgil since the beginning of the season can make progress because sometimes he was not concentrated, and also I think the play is different to last year.

“Last year he could defend with strong work back on the pitch and for him this year is different because sometimes he has to defend with 50 or 60 metres behind him.

“For me he has all the qualities to be one of the best defenders in the world. No problem for this. Virgil has the answer for this and has to continue his work and his progress.”

Southampton continue their busy schedule on Sunday when they face Hull City in the Premier League. Saints are 11/10 to keep a clean sheet in the match while van Dijk is 8/1to score at any time against Mike Phelan’s struggling team.

source: bet365.com