Roy Hodgson Criticizes Virgil van Dijk for Yellow Card Incident
Crystal Palace Manager Unhappy with Van Dijk’s Actions
In a surprising turn of events, Crystal Palace player Jordan Ayew was shown a second yellow card and sent off during the match against Liverpool. This decision completely changed the game, as Palace was leading 1-0 at the time, but Liverpool managed to turn it around and win 2-1. However, Palace manager Roy Hodgson was not pleased with the red card and took the opportunity to criticize Virgil van Dijk for his role in the incident.
Hodgson’s Disapproval of Van Dijk’s Actions
Hodgson expressed his belief that playing with 10 men for the last 15-20 minutes was incredibly harsh on his team. He also disagreed with the nine yellow cards given during the match, although he admitted that he deserved his own. The manager specifically pointed out Van Dijk’s attempt to get Ayew a yellow card by kicking the ball against him from a few yards away. Hodgson felt that a player of Van Dijk’s caliber should not engage in such behavior.
The Yellow Card Incidents
Examining the two yellow card incidents separately, they can be seen as textbook examples. Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool’s manager, has previously expressed his desire for his team to utilize more of the dark arts, and Van Dijk’s actions align with this approach. It is not uncommon for opponents to try to provoke Liverpool players in this manner, and Van Dijk was well within his rights to attempt to play the ball. Ayew was aware of what he was doing when he obstructed Van Dijk.
Hodgson’s Frustration with Officiating
Hodgson’s frustration with the red card did not subside during his post-match press conference. He reiterated his total disagreement with the decision and expressed disillusionment with the officiating in general. While understandable given the pressure he is under, it is interesting that Hodgson specifically singled out Van Dijk for criticism.