Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk gives an honest verdict on his poor start to the season
One of the world’s best defenders, and probably the best defender at the Reds, Virgil van Dijk is going through a rough patch in terms of form. Liverpool’s unpleasant start to the season is a reflection of the Dutchman’s tough beginning. After all, Virgil is extremely crucial to the team, and without him performing on the levels he can, Liverpool would suffer.
The 31-year-old, currently on international duty for the Netherlands admits that he feels responsible for the rocky commencement and knows that he has not made the most ideal of starts. (h/t Liverpool Echo)
“I know I could have done better in the beginning of the season. I’m not naïve about that. I know very well when I make mistakes”.
Van Dijk also mentioned that there exists a lot of “pressure” given that he is one of the most important players, for both club and country. Calling it “mentally challenging”, Virgil would hope that the Netherlands’ win vs Poland wherein he ensured Robert Lewandowski did not get past the backline, sparks a change in form and fortune for himself.
VVD’s Form is a concern
Liverpool’s last game before the international break against Ajax showed promise and glimpses of what the Reds could do when in top form. A win was much needed heading into the break, and that is what the Merseysiders got.
The Dutchman’s poor form could be attributed to the career-threatening ACL injury in the 2020 season. Another key point is the World Cup in November. One could say that Virgil is playing safe to represent Holland at peak fitness in the event.
Presently, Liverpool are in the eighth position in the Premier League and would want to change that and come up the ranks when the club campaign restarts for the Reds on 1st October. Van Dijk hopes to show his best for club and country and make a point for himself after the unpleasant beginning of the season.
“We all try to show our best and if, in my case, you are one of the mainstays at the club, then you get the criticism you deserve. You have to deal with that and that is not always easy. But I did that just fine.”
His current form though is a matter of concern for the Reds. Unlike his usual self, Van Dijk has been guilty of giving away cheap fouls and was guilty of giving away penalties which never happened in his Liverpool career until this season. Hopefully, a good break from club football shall trigger a change and result in the good for both, Virgil and Liverpool.
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Starting against Brighton and Hove Albion, Liverpool will look to make the push towards the title and hopefully, go on to enjoy a successful season from here on.
