Virgil van Dijk has pushed back against what he believes is over-the-top criticism after Liverpool returned to winning ways.
Speaking live during Prime’s post-match analysis following the victory over Real Madrid, the captain stood beside pundit Wayne Rooney and addressed recent scrutiny.
“Of course [some of the criticism has been fair], if you lose four or five games in a row as a Liverpool player, that is fair. It is normal in that sense.
“It’s over the top at times as well, but that is because we live in a world where there are so many platforms, so many people can say stuff and will be picked up and made bigger than what it is.”
He added: “I think it would be good for ex-players that played at the highest level that dealt with difficult moments to put things in perspective.”
The defender made it clear that he embraces responsibility, but also feels some comments crossed the line after he signed his new deal.
“I think if you would watch games, then I would definitely take the responsibility. I think the comment that I signed my new deal, and then it’s like that’s it, and I let it slide. I think that was a bit…but that’s my personal opinion.”
Rooney didn’t back down, however. The former Manchester United forward maintained that his assessment was fair. He also praised Liverpool’s response, with the Reds securing back-to-back wins to steady their season.
The debate reflects a familiar Premier League narrative: elite players demanding balanced analysis, while former greats hold firm in their punditry.
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