Liverpool's defence has been a huge cause for positivity this season.

This time 12 months ago and Liverpool supporters were convinced that their back four would hold them back in the Premier League, but what a difference a year can make.

Of course, the major turning point was the signing of Virgil van Dijk who has not only proven himself as one of the world's best defenders but has improved almost everybody around him.

Now, rather unexpectedly, it's the attack that has frustrated Kopites the most this season as Van Dijk and co. continue to garner clean sheets.

For most of the season, the Ducthman has been starring alongside Joe Gomez, who has been a stand-out performer for the Reds.

Lovren's return to the team

However, a recent knock in training forced Klopp to revert back to the 2017-18 system, reintroducing Dejan Lovren to the starting XI.

Although Lovren can produce some inspired performances on Merseyside, the Croatian has often been a cause for frustration with fans and his inclusion certainly didn't inspire confidence.

Obviously, Liverpool would go onto keep a clean sheet in the weekend's clash with Watford but how did Lovren perform on his return to the team?

Video of Van Dijk-Lovren partnership

Well, pretty well to be honest and many supporters were disappointed that Lovren wasn't getting the credit he deserved at Vicarage Road.

What's more, he seemed to prove that his partnership with Van Dijk was just as strong as ever with Gomez's run in the team doing little to quell the chemistry.

So, it's no surprise that one Liverpool fan has compiled a video of their partnership against Watford and it was defensive solidarity at its very best. See it here:

Was it as good as Gomez? Probably not, but what a partnership to have as 'back-up.'

Although Lovren bizarrely considers himself the best defender in the world, he's definitely in the Premier League's top 10 when he's playing well and will be a vital asset for Liverpool going forward.

Reaction to Lovren on Twitter

Playing alongside Van Dijk has definitely bred a new confidence in him and it wasn't missed by Kopites on Twitter. Take a look at some of the best tweets below:

For a player so routinely criticised, it's pleasing to see him receive due praise.

And his manager was certainly satisfied with the overall performance with Klopp reflecting: It was a really mature performance.

"I am not sure if we had the ball in the past when we’ve played here, they were much more open games – especially the 3-3 we played here. 

"We’ve never controlled games like this in the manner we do it now. I like that. I know a few people miss one or two situations which we had in the last season, especially the second part of the season."

Do you think Lovren is underrated? Have your say in the comments section below.