(Photo by Daniel Bartel/Getty Images)Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has explained why he asked to forego the Reds’ pre-season tour to the United States. The 35-year-old was one of eight current LFC players involved at the World Cup, with the club typically granting three weeks off after the end of a player’s participation in summer international tournaments. Van Dijk asked for an extended break after the World CupSpeaking to reporters after Liverpool’s defeat to Monaco on Sunday, Van Dijk revealed that he’d asked for extra time off so that he’d be at peak condition for the new season, rather than going back before feeling ready. He said (via BBC Sport): “I definitely asked for a good break because I felt like I needed it, not only physically but mentally as well. The Dutchman has nothing to prove when it comes to demonstrating his commitment to the cause, that’s for sure.