Van Dijk denies tweaks have blunted Liverpool's edge

Van Dijk Denies Tweaks Have Blunted Liverpool's Edge

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has firmly denied that tactical adjustments under manager Arne Slot have dulled the team's attacking sharpness, insisting the Reds remain committed to their high-intensity style despite a challenging season.[1][2]

In comments ahead of Liverpool's New Year's Premier League clash against Leeds United at Anfield, the 34-year-old defender expressed optimism amid a recent upturn in form. The team has climbed back into the top four, unbeaten in five league games and seven across all competitions, though they trail leaders Arsenal by 10 points.[2][3] Van Dijk acknowledged the first half of the season fell short of expectations but highlighted positive signs of improvement, urging consistency in the second half.[2]

"We know this season hasn't gone as we hoped, and we are as disappointed as anyone, but I believe lately we've started to show positive signs," van Dijk stated. He dismissed any notion that Slot's tweaks—aimed at addressing defensive frailties—have blunted Liverpool's edge, emphasizing the squad's depth despite injuries and the need for daily hard work.[2][3]

A key focus is set-piece defending, where Liverpool have struggled markedly. They've conceded 12 league goals from dead balls in 18 games—the most in the division—and scored just three (excluding penalties), creating a league-worst minus-nine differential.[3] "The fact is we've conceded too many set-piece goals and we don't score enough," van Dijk admitted. "It's something we have to improve... It's the second phase that is the killer."[3] Slot echoed this, noting progress in winning despite concessions, as in recent victories over Tottenham and Wolves.[3]

Defensive concerns persist, with reports of van Dijk showing decline post-extension, alongside issues for Ibrahima Konaté and Joe Gomez, prompting calls for January reinforcements.[1] Yet van Dijk remains defiant: "Our squad is strong enough... Let's start 2026 on the right track with a win at Anfield."[2]

The match revives a 3-3 December draw at Elland Road, with Liverpool aiming to close the gap to third-placed Aston Villa.[2]