Virgil van Dijk has been tremendous during his time in the Premier League.

The Dutchman joined Southampton from Celtic in 2015 and quickly emerged into of the best defenders in the league.

But, since joining Liverpool in January 2018, Van Dijk's performance levels raised even further.

Van Dijk is now considered as one of the best defenders in the world.

Many are even starting to suggest that he's one of the best defenders the Premier League has ever seen.

Rio Ferdinand is one name that many consider to be the best in Premier League history.

And Kevin Kilbane believes he has 'more to his game than Ferdinand' and has the potential to be even better than the former Man United defender.

“He’s going into the territory of the being the best defender I’ve seen live,” Kilbane told Irish radio station Newstalk, per TheSportReview.

“Liverpool have had Hansen but Van Dijk controls the game from his position. It’s amazing to see him.

“I think he’s getting into that territory along with top defenders like Rio Ferdinand and John Terry. Van Dijk has more to his game than Ferdinand.

“He is a better passer, he is more aggressive when he needs to be and he has that calm streak about him. Potentially, he’ll be better than Ferdinand.”

Wow. That is some statement to make.

There is no doubt that Van Dijk is a tremendous defender.

The impact he has made since joining Liverpool has been nothing short if incredible.

However, Ferdinand won every trophy in the English game.

He won six Premier League titles with United and helped them to a Champions League triumph in 2008.

Van Dijk, on the other hand, hasn't won anything with Liverpool yet.

In the future, Van Dijk could well be considered in the same bracket as Ferdinand, but until he has won anything the argument seems a little premature.

Do you think Van Dijk is a better defender than Ferdinand was? Have your say by leaving a comment below.