Football 
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Horse Racing Mikael Silvestre has his say on Vidic vs Van Dijk debate
Ahead of a huge Europa League tie for Manchester United at home against Sevilla, we sat down with former Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre.
We discussed a range of topics with the Frenchman including the Nemanja Vidic vs Virgil van Dijk debate, a look ahead to the Sevilla fixture and the return of Danish midfielder Christian Eriksen.
In this article:
Vidic vs van Dijk
After Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with league leaders Arsenal, the focus has been on their poor defensive display in the first half.
Virgil van Dijk, who has been a vital component of the Liverpool defence since his arrival in January 2018, seemed to have lost his dominant presence on the pitch since returning from his ACL injury.
Many have drawn comparisons between him and Manchester United legend Nemanja Vidic, leading to a debate about who is the better defender. While Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher has claimed that van Dijk is superior to Vidic, Silvestre disagrees and doesn’t see a significant difference between the two.
“I think you can put them in the same category and level.”
“They have a different style of defending.”
“Van Dijk is about anticipating. Vida (Nemanja Vidic) was better at 1 vs 1’s. Those are the main differences. Otherwise they are both good on the ball and at reading the game.”
“Different styles but both are super effective and very good defenders.”
“As a centre-back your main job is to defend.”
“If you look at things such as recoveries, blocks and interception I think they would be similar in terms of numbers.’
“Vida at the top of his game could play for the best teams in the world. Real Madrid, Juventus. He played for Manchester United for many years when they were extremely strong at the back.”
United must not be complacent against Sevilla
Following their crucial 2-0 victory against Everton in the league on Saturday, Manchester United now shift their focus towards their upcoming Europa League fixture against Sevilla, scheduled for Thursday. Despite Sevilla’s lacklustre performance in the league, the Spanish club remains a formidable opponent with a record six UEFA Cup/Europa League titles to their name. For Erik ten Had and his team, this match presents yet another chance to add to their trophy collection following their Carabao Cup win in February. According to Silvestre, it is crucial that Manchester United maintains their complete focus on Thursday night.
“United can’t afford to be relaxed and they will need to put on a good performance to win.”
“It’s good to keep the habit of winning after beating Everton and Brentford.”
“Sevila aren’t as dangerous and strong as in previous seasons but you have to give them credit for reaching this part of the competition.”
“It’s important to respect Sevilla.”
The return of Chrstian Eriksen
Christian Eriksen’s return to action in Manchester United’s recent victory over Everton is expected to provide a significant boost to their campaign for a top-four finish. Moreover, his presence will prove beneficial in their pursuit of success in the Europa League and FA Cup, particularly given the congested fixture list.
Although Silvestre has acknowledged Bruno Fernandes’ impressive performances in Eriksen’s absence, he believes that Eriksen’s expertise in the deeper position of the midfield will be advantageous for the team.
“Eriksen is the best player Manchester United have when it comes to linking play.”
“He has that vision and game understanding of the position to quickly transition defence to offence through a short or longer pass.”
“He excels at that.”
“Bruno can do the same but Eriksen has an extra level in that aspect.”
