Van Dijk on Salah: No one has 'unlimited credit'

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has publicly addressed the recent controversy surrounding Mohamed Salah being benched, emphasizing that no player at the club has "unlimited credit." Van Dijk's comments come amid growing speculation about Salah's future at Liverpool after the Egyptian star was left out of the starting lineup for a crucial Champions League match against Frankfurt, a decision that sparked backlash from fans and pundits alike.

Van Dijk, speaking to reporters after the match, stressed the importance of accountability and performance at the highest level. "No one at this club, no matter how big their name or how many goals they've scored, is untouchable," he said. "We all have to earn our place every week. If you're not performing, you can't expect to play. That's the reality of football."

The Liverpool captain's remarks were seen as a direct response to the criticism aimed at manager Arne Slot for dropping Salah, who has struggled for consistent form this season. While Salah remains a fan favorite and a club legend, Van Dijk pointed out that even the most decorated players must accept the consequences of poor performances. "It's not about being disrespectful to anyone," he added. "It's about doing what's best for the team."

Van Dijk also acknowledged the emotional impact such decisions can have on players, but insisted that unity and professionalism are paramount. "We're all in this together," he said. "When one of us is benched, it's not personal. It's about making sure the team is in the best possible position to win."

The captain's comments have been widely interpreted as a message to both Salah and the wider squad, reinforcing the idea that no player is above the team. As Liverpool continue their push for silverware, Van Dijk's leadership and candid assessment of the situation have been praised for setting the right tone within the dressing room.