Virgil van Dijk Responds to Criticism of His Performances
Virgil van Dijk has responded to recent criticism of his performances, insisting that some of the comments are “not quite right.” The Dutch captain experienced a difficult 2022/23 season both individually and collectively as Liverpool dropped out of the Champions League places for the first time since 2016.
Van Dijk: Criticism is Part of Playing for a Top Side
Van Dijk made 41 appearances in all competitions throughout last season as Liverpool fell to their worst full season of Jurgen Klopp‘s tenure. Several pundits have singled out the defender for criticism following the disappointing campaign, with Roy Keane accusing Van Dijk and his peers of “defending like a pub team.” The Reds conceded 47 Premier League goals during 2022/23, up significantly from the 26 shipped in the campaign prior.
Van Dijk has since responded to the evaluations of Keane and others, insisting that while some of the noise is fair, others are wide of the mark. He admitted that criticism is “part” of playing for a top side, but also noted that “a footballer knows when he has played well or badly.”
Van Dijk Calls for Klopp to Make More Signings
Earlier this week, Van Dijk called for Klopp to make a “couple more” signings in the summer window following the arrival of Alexis Mac Allister. Liverpool will be hoping that some extra additions and a positive pre-season can inspire a much-improved 2023/24 campaign in all competitions.
Conclusion
Virgil van Dijk has responded to recent criticism of his performances, insisting that some of the comments are “not quite right.” The defender has admitted that criticism is “part” of playing for a top side, but also noted that “a footballer knows when he has played well or badly.” Van Dijk has called for Klopp to make more signings in the summer window and Liverpool will be hoping that some extra additions and a positive pre-season can inspire a much-improved 2023/24 campaign in all competitions.