Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk ‘seemed annoyed’ at the criticism aimed towards him by Marco van Basten and Ruud Gullit, according to Voetbal International.
The 31-year-old has seen the Reds failed to impress in all competitions this season. They were eliminated from the Champions League, the FA Cup and the EFL Cup by Real Madrid, Brighton & Hove Albion and Manchester City respectively.
Liverpool are sixth in the league, trailing fifth placed Newcastle United by five points and seven behind fourth placed Tottenham Hotspur, who have played two more games.
Speaking to Ziggo Sport, relayed by Voetbal International, the Netherlands international talked about the Merseyside club’s struggles this season.
“I don’t know what kind of criticism has been made? It is clear that we played badly. I am one of the experienced guys, so it is completely justified,” he said.
After he was made aware the criticism was made by Van Basten and Ruud Gullit, Van Dijk explained: “This is of no use to me. Everyone is allowed to have their own opinion these days, that’s the case.
“Did I set the bar unrealistically high? How is that possible? It was never perfect, consistent is the right word. We’ve had a lot of success with the team. Football players, they know that better than anyone, have high peaks and deep lows.
“It’s quite normal that you can’t always play consistently. That you have a phase as a club or player where you are looking for your level. People should not forget that. It is normal that people make mistakes, that it is part of football and that it is very human. Regardless of who gets a platform and is allowed to say what, so that things are made big. You know better than anyone when you are doing something right or not.”
A hamstring injury forced the centre-back to miss a few games for Liverpool this season and he’s made 31 times appearances in all competitions. The Dutchman has admitted he has had a difficult season with Jürgen Klopp’s side so far.
“These are difficult times at the club, also with ups and downs. I am very positive about the future and try to play my best game ever every game. We are not robots. Let’s not forget that. Maybe people sometimes forget that,” Van Dijk stressed.
Liverpool, who have only league games to focus on, are still in contention to qualify for the Champions League next season.
