Van Dijk hits back at Rooney over 'lazy criticism'

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Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has responded to criticism from Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney, dismissing the comments as "lazy" and defending his and Mohamed Salah's leadership amid Liverpool's recent struggles. Rooney, speaking on his own show, had suggested that Liverpool's body language this season has been "not right," singling out Van Dijk and Salah as lacking the right attitude.

Van Dijk addressed the remarks after Liverpool's 2-0 victory over Aston Villa, stating that he didn't hear Rooney's criticism last year when Liverpool were performing well. He emphasized that while Rooney is a respected figure in football, the comments felt like an easy way to blame players rather than acknowledging the collective effort required to overcome challenges. "It's easy to blame all the players," Van Dijk said, "but he knows as well as everyone else we do it together, trying to help each and every one of us trying to get out of this."

The Dutch center-back also pointed out the inconsistency in pundit commentary, noting that such criticism is absent when teams are successful. "Like I said as well last year when things go well, you don't hear that at all," he remarked, suggesting that pundits have a job to do and that everyone is entitled to an opinion. Van Dijk made it clear that he doesn't take the criticism personally and holds no hard feelings toward Rooney, acknowledging his status as a legend and inspiration to many.

Overall, Van Dijk's response was measured and diplomatic, focusing on the importance of unity within the team and the need to work together to overcome difficult periods. He reiterated that leadership is a collective responsibility and that Liverpool are committed to supporting each other through the challenges they face this season.

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