Liverpool — Virgil van Dijk has pledged to perform “far better” as he battles to halt his worrisome decline in form this season.
By his own high standards, Van Dijk has struggled in the first eight games of the new season, and the Dutch central defender is not afraid to admit it.
James Milner singled out Van Dijk for criticism after the defender failed to close down Jadon Sancho before the Manchester United striker scored in the Reds’ 2-1 loss at Old Trafford.
Several of his mistakes contributed to Liverpool’s humbling Champions League loss to Napoli, 4-1.
Van Dijk is determined to return to form after assisting Liverpool to a tense 2-1 win over Ajax on Tuesday.
“What we did last week (against Napoli) was inexcusable, and in the days following that game, we were undoubtedly given a reality check,” he remarked.
“I still think I have room for improvement, which is acceptable. Play the games, learn from your mistakes, limit your exposure to the outside world, and communicate with those closest to you.
“I’ve stated numerous times that we are all human beings who desire to perform as best as possible, and the same applies to me. I am certain I can do much better, but we can all do so.
“I feel a good deal of responsibility whether we feel goals or fail to retain clean sheets, which is a positive thing.
“I want to turn around this season not just for myself, but for everyone affiliated with the club, and we want to perform as well as good.”
Liverpool gained the lead against Ajax for the second time this season, resulting in the win.
Van Dijk said there were promising indicators despite the team’s occasionally weak defensive appearances.
“There are reasons why things are not going well. I think the reasons have been outlined, particularly the game against Napoli “he added.
“We were utterly startling that night, and we all recognize it; it hurts us all, and it hurts me.
“We discussed it, drew a line under it, and displayed glimpses of our normal selves against Ajax. We are good when we perform as a team.”
AFP