Gary Neville slams Virgil van Dijk for ‘rash’ defending that saw him sent off against Newcastle
Manchester United legend Gary Neville has slammed Virgil van Dijk for the ‘rash’ defending that saw him sent off against Newcastle United. The Dutchman was given his marching orders after bringing down Alexander Isak just outside Liverpool’s penalty area.
The Swede let the ball roll along his body but he was fouled when Van Dijk kicked through his leg and sent the forward tumbling. Van Dijk was in disbelief when a red card was branded but the decision was verified after a VAR review.
Jurgen Klopp was similarly furious on the sidelines but speaking over a highlight of the incident, Neville agreed with the ref’s decision and branded Van Dijk ‘rash’.
Van Dijk’s Red Card
Jurgen Klopp is perplexed but I thought he [Van Dijk] just kicked through the centre forward,’ Neville said on Sky Sports. ‘Van Dijk’s questioning the decision but this is going to get very messy, very quickly for Liverpool if they go down to ten men. It wasn’t Van Dijk’s ball to win from the angle he was challenging from.
He had to try and follow Isak’s run but he decided to try to win it. I think he just kicks through Isak to get the ball. Oh he does. He kicks his left leg, it’s so rash from Van Dijk. He’s got the pace, he’s the right side, he doesn’t need to commit there.
Now he’s starting to abuse the official. He’s not going to overturn it. We’ve all been there, you’ve just got to get off the pitch and take your medicine. It’s a VVD that wouldn’t have tried to win that a few years ago. He would have allowed Van Dijk to take a touch and take it off him in the channel. It’s just rash from Van Dijk.
I mean look at that, he doesn’t just tap him – he wellies through him! Isak’s gone past him because Van Dijk is committing [to the tackle].
Van Dijk’s Impact on Liverpool
Van Dijk’s red card could have a major impact on Liverpool’s season, as they will now have to play without their star defender for some time. This could be a huge blow to their title hopes, as they will now have to rely on their other defenders to fill in for Van Dijk and maintain their defensive solidity.
The Reds will also have to adjust their tactics without Van Dijk, as his presence in the backline was key to their success last season. Without him, they will have to find a way to make up for his absence and ensure that their defence remains as strong as possible.
Conclusion
Van Dijk’s red card was a major blow for Liverpool, and it could have a major impact on their season going forward. They will now have to find a way to adjust without their star defender, and it remains to be seen how they will cope without him in the backline. However, with their other defenders stepping up and performing well, they may still be able to challenge for the title this season.