Former striker Gabriel Agbonlahor has hit Liverpool captain Virgil Van Dijk hard after a disappointing defeat to Manchester United.
Since moving to Anfield from Southampton, the Dutchman has won every major title possible over the years and has established himself as one of the greatest centre-backs in Premier League history.
His contract expired at the end of last season and after intense speculation he decided to stay at Anfield, signing a new contract until 2027.
However, the 34-year-old has put in inconsistent performances this season, conceding 16 goals in 11 games in all competitions. Moreover, he was not at his best against Man Utd on Sunday and ended up on the losing side.
Now, move on talkSPORTAgbonlahor says Van Dijk is starting to show signs of decline and opposition attackers no longer find him as intimidating as they used to.
Furthermore, the pundit claims that the Dutch international was responsible for Man Utd’s opening goal, and how he defended on that occasion was a major concern.
Pundit slams Van Dijk
Agbonlar:
“A few seasons ago, watching Van Dijk reminded me of players like Vincent Kompany and Rio Ferdinand; defenders who were so dominant that attackers wouldn’t even run near them. I remember playing against Kompany and Rio, and sometimes you just thought, ‘What’s the point?’ They were faster, stronger, smarter – they kicked you, turned you, tackled you. That was the Van Dijk we all knew.
“Now it feels different. Everyone is running at him, everyone is trying. Liverpool’s defensive problems have been obvious this season – even when they won, they looked shaky. And while Van Dijk is still one of the greatest centre-backs the Premier League has ever seen – let’s be clear about that – players are dropping out. Careers evolve. I’m not saying his is over, but things have certainly changed.”
“Let’s make this clear: Van Dijk played a key role in the move that led to the equalizer. His tackle on the halfway line was crucial in starting that attack. But at the same time you have to question him for the first goal. As much as he is one of the best we have seen, moments like that raise real concerns.”
Defense is becoming a problematic area for Liverpool as Konate, like Van Dijk, has also not been at his best so far this season with his existing contract expiring next summer.
In addition to the duo, Slot currently has Joe Gomez as his only central defender, but he has struggled with fitness problems in recent years.
New summer signing Giovanni Leoni has suffered a serious knee injury and will be sidelined for the rest of the season. Konate and Van Dijk will therefore have to act to turn the situation around. Otherwise, Liverpool may have to make a move to buy a new CB in the coming winter period.
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