Tim Sherwood was critical of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate for the role they played in Liverpool’s 1-0 defeat to Bournemouth on Saturday.
The former title-winner with Blackburn added that van Dijk looked ‘so lethargic’ against the Cherries, as he questioned the 31-year-old’s pace.
Whilst he was baffled by Konate’s decision to go to ground as he attempted to stop the cross that led to Philip Billing scoring the only goal of the game.
The Liverpool old or the Liverpool of new? Jurgen Klopp will be left scratching his head after his side’s latest performance.
It’s same old same old, in regards to what the team has been producing this season, but is it a sign of things to come?
Either way, there are major problems at the back for the Reds and that was touched upon by Tim Sherwood when talking about the centre-back duo, as he told MatchDay Extra on Premier League Productions (11/03/23 at 8:10 pm).
“Virgil van Dijk was one of the best at defending on his own, he would use his pace,” said Sherwood. “But he looks so lethargic, at the moment.
“He is stepping off at the wrong time. They were getting in behind again and again. Getting in deep. Konate. What is he doing there? (in trying to stop the cross for Bournemouth’s goal).
“Both Virgil van Dijk and Konate try to step up. But you look at Konate. Why is he going to ground?! Just stay on your feet and cut the cross out. He has no idea who is behind him. Billing comes in and finishes it off.
“Why are you falling over?! Just keep your balance and clear the ball. It’s really poor from Liverpool.”
VAN DIJK HAS LOST HIS SPARK
There was a point when van Dijk would consider himself the best centre-back in the world. But he can’t claim that prize now.
The £75 million signing (Sky Sports) isn’t performing to the standards expected and Liverpool’s abject performances, especially on the road, is partly down to their star man losing his spark.
If this continues onto next season, then serious questions have to be asked.
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