Virgil van Dijk praises Ryan Gravenberch as Liverpool midfielder hits top form

Gravenberch, 23, scored one goal and assisted another in the victory, becoming the youngest player to both score and assist in a Premier League Merseyside derby at 23 years and 127 days. The performance further underlined his transformation into a key figure under head coach Arne Slot.

Van Dijk, speaking after the match, praised the Netherlands international's development and influence since joining Liverpool from Bayern Munich last summer in a 34 million pounds deal.

"He's unbelievable," Van Dijk said. "He's very important to the way we play. You see the amount of times I try to look for him. It benefits him, me, and the team. He's in incredible shape. He's in the form of his life."

Gravenberch opened the scoring by hooking home a pass from Mohamed Salah before setting up Hugo Ekitike for Liverpool's second goal. His performance followed a strong showing in midweek against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, continuing his impressive run of form.

"It's not just this season," Van Dijk added. "He's been playing like that from the moment last season started. He hardly played in his first year, but it's been a mix of gaining confidence, improving as a player, and understanding his role. I'm very pleased for him because he works extremely hard."

Van Dijk noted the tactical intelligence Gravenberch has.

"Because teams try to go man-for-man in midfield, you have to take your marker away," he said. "He did that outstandingly well. It was a great goal."

Liverpool's win keeps them five points clear at the top of the Premier League table. They now await results elsewhere, with Arsenal facing Manchester City in a match that could impact the standings.

READ MORE: Gabriel praises Richards Bay character after Stellenbosch victory