Former Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum came up with an hilarious nickname for Virgil van Dijk after discovering he doesn’t drink anything but water.
The pair were teammates for four seasons at Anfield, whilst they have also shared the international stage for a number of years. Throughout that time, the duo have struck up quite the understanding and relationship. However, both Van Dijk and Wijnaldum are still discovering each other’s nuances, one in particular being the fact that the defender does not drink anything but water in an effort to remain on the top of his game.
Speaking about his avoidance of fizzy drinks, Van Dijk said: "Just water. Gini (Wijnaldum) used to call me 'Aquaman' because I only drink water and it's all I have in the house.
“Every now and again, I will enjoy a glass of wine with my wife. I don't really like fizzy drinks and don't like my kids drinking them so it's usually water."
Of course, Wijnaldum has not had the chance for a catch-up with his former teammate over recent years from a club footballing viewpoint having decided to leave Liverpool at the end of his contract in the summer of 2021. He sealed a free transfer to French giants Paris Saint-Germain.
However, the 31-year-old was not able to force himself into first-team contention at the Parc des Princes having started just 22 games in all competitions during his debut campaign.
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The Dutchman was allowed to leave the club during the summer window in a loan switch to Italian giants AS Roma but endured a nightmare start to life at the Stadio Olimpico having suffered a broken leg in training.
He recently gave an update on his recovery in a short video to supporters. He said: “Since my injury I didn't respond or send a video out simply because I was really emotional and sad about the situation around my injury.
"First of all I want to say sorry, second I can say that now I'm in a really good space with my rehab programme. I accept the situation as it is and that is why I can now give 100 per-cent in my rehab. Everything is going well.
“I wanted to thank everyone who sent me a message during the time and who wished me well. My previous clubs and the people around me who sent a message and wished me the best, thank you for that. For the Roma fans, I really want to thank you for the support I’m getting from you guys so far.
"It gives me power to come back as quick as possible. I know it's really difficult for you guys because I just joined the club and you all had really big hopes that we would make it a really good season, but there is still time.
"I'm doing my best to come back as quickly as possible and trying to enjoy the season with you guys. I want to thank all of you and hopefully we see each other soon again. Forza Roma!"
