Southampton’s 2016-17 Naughty or Nice list

NICE – Virgil van Dijk

Arguably the best defender in the Premier League this season, Dutch international Virgil van Dijk continues lead by example at the heart of the Southampton defence.

The 25-year-old initially struggled at the start of the last season following his move from Celtic, but soon found his feet in the Premier League and has been excellent ever since.

Combining all the traits a modern-day centre-back needs, van Dijk is already attracting interest from other top-flight clubs ahead of the January transfer window, with the likes of Liverpool, Everton, and Manchester City all being linked with the defender.

Thus, it would be the best bit of January business Southampton did if he remained a Saints player come February 1.