Virgil van Dijk has admitted Liverpool's current season has been 'unacceptable' and 'disappointing' following their 3-2 defeat by Manchester United on Sunday, which has left the team with more work to do to qualify for next season's Champions League.
Captain's verdict on campaign
The Liverpool captain refused to use the team's significant injury list as an excuse for their faltering campaign, stating they must 'turn this around' for next season. Van Dijk dismissed suggestions that players' holiday time contributed to their struggles, clarifying that 'city trips' are not holidays and players are adults who manage their time off.
Response to criticism
He expressed surprise at the perception that the team has too much time off, noting that other successful managers like Pep Guardiola also give players days off, and emphasised the importance of finding the right balance. Van Dijk stressed the need for consistency and a return to the club's high standards as he looked ahead to Saturday's crucial home fixture against managerless Chelsea, which he is determined to win.
