Virgil van Dijk, Gakpo and Kostas Tsimikas shared a light-hearted moment after their match yesterday.
Tsimikas and his Greek team faced a 3-0 defeat by the Netherlands, with Cody Gakpo scoring one of the goals. However, after the game, the camaraderie among the Liverpool trio was evident. A video on The Anfield Talk Twitter page captured Van Dijk warmly embracing Tsimikas on the pitch. Soon after, Gakpo joined in, offering a hug to the left-back.
The three players shared laughter while Greece manager Gustavo Poyet approached. Despite Tsimikas initially appearing serious, his expression quickly turned into a smile. As Van Dijk and Gakpo continued to laugh, it seemed that a humorous exchange had taken place, likely initiated by the former Chelsea player. With Poyet moving away, the Liverpool players continued their lighthearted conversation.
Given Tsimikas’s lively character, it’s safe to assume there was banter between them leading up to the match. Tsimikas is known as one of the most spirited members of the Liverpool squad, and he likely teased Van Dijk and Gakpo throughout the week.
Despite the outcome of the match, the Netherlands were expected to be the stronger team. With Gakpo scoring and Van Dijk experimenting in a new position, it was a positive day for Liverpool’s Dutch pair. For Tsimikas, this match marked his first significant playing time of the season, which should be beneficial as the Europa League approaches.
Although his decision to stay at Liverpool this season without a guaranteed starting role may have been surprising, his presence strengthens the squad. The competition he provides for Andy Robertson is valuable, and if Tsimikas gets an opportunity, he is likely to demonstrate why he deserves more starting opportunities.
This insight highlights the positive rapport that the 27-year-old shares with his teammates, which is an important aspect of team dynamics.