Liverpool’s Van Dijk gave away a late penalty against Manchester City that was missed by Riyad Mahrez.
Liverpool just about kept their unbeaten Premier League record alive at the weekend in a 0-0 draw with Manchester City.
The game was easily one of the most anticipated of the season so far, although it failed to live up to expectations in that regard as the two teams cancelled each other out.
City had what was easily the biggest chance of the game, after Virgil van Dijk conceded a penalty with a foul on Leroy Sane with just minutes to go.
Riyad Mahrez skied it over the bar, however, sparing the Dutchman’s blushes for what was an uncharacteristically rash challenge.
“[After] 85 minutes, you obviously get a bit fatigued,” explained Van Dijk, according to the Manchester Evening News. “And that moment goes by in a split second and I decided to dive in, which is not what I would normally do.
“It was a decision I made and hopefully it will be the last time I make that decision at that time.”
In what was a huge game – as well as Van Dijk’s third in eight days – Liverpool fans will likely forgive him for the error – although that is obviously far easier given that Mahrez missed.
Credit to the Dutchman, however, for recognising his error and owning up to it; that is the kind of leadership and responsibility that Liverpool wanted when they broke the world record for a defender to sign Van Dijk.
Much like with Alisson’s mistake earlier in the season, everyone will simply be happy that the error did not cost them the game.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
