Liverpool’s rising star is determined to prove his critics wrong after recent setbacks. Van Dijk also lauds the team’s mentality, highlighting their strong start to the season as they aim to keep up their impressive form in both the Premier League and Champions League.
Liverpool Icon Eager to Silence Critics After Backlash
Under new head coach Arne Slot, the Reds have surged to the top of the Premier League, winning nine of their first 11 matches to establish a five-point lead over defending champions Manchester City. They’re also performing brilliantly in the Champions League, securing victories in their opening four group-stage games.
Even though the team had a great season debut, despite the club’s strong start to the season, Robertson, often considered one of the best left-backs in the Premier League and the world, has encountered some personal struggles.
For several years, the Scotland international consistently played on the opposite flank to Trent Alexander-Arnold, but his spot in the lineup has been under threat from Kostas Tsimikas since he sustained a shoulder injury in September 2023.
Robertson was out for three months, giving Tsimikas the chance to shine, and some have started to suggest that Robertson’s form is slipping. Pundit Micah Richards is among those who recently argued that he has “lost a yard of pace.”
The 30-year-old, who has played in all but one of Liverpool’s Premier League matches this season, is determined to silence his critics.
“The last couple of games, I’ve been on the bench, and I got doubters for the first time in a long time, first time at this club,” Robertson told reporters. “But it suits me in this position. I am trying to prove people wrong again.
“I missed pre-season, which is never ideal for any player. And then I have had the ankle struggles. I got another knock on it against Wolves [Wolverhampton Wanderers], and it took a bit of time to settle down. So, look, I feel good. Obviously, taking a couple of games out was frustrating. I want to play every game, of course, but that was not possible.
“When I first came in I was only 23, first time playing for a big club. I have been here for seven years and won everything, played in a lot of big games. I am a lot more experienced and a lot better at switching off from everything like overreactions and things like that.
“People can write me off all they want. But I will always try to keep working, keep improving. I have tried to do that and hopefully I have shown that.”
Robertson is currently on international duty with Scotland, preparing for Nations League matches against Croatia and Poland. Afterward, he’ll return to Liverpool for their upcoming match against Southampton, followed by a crucial Champions League showdown with Real Madrid.
Van Dijk on Liverpool Form: “The Mentality of the Boys Is Amazing”
Liverpool head into the November international break top of both the Premier League and the revamped Champions League group stage. Under Arne Slot, they’ve passed every test, defeating the likes of Aston Villa, Bayer Leverkusen, Chelsea, and RB Leipzig. While others have faltered, Liverpool’s only setbacks have been a draw with Arsenal and a surprising loss to Nottingham Forest.
“We’re only in November, but I see us dealing with difficult moments pretty well,” was captain Virgil van Dijk’s take on the Reds’ success so far and what they need to continue to do in order to stay successful. “We had a couple of games where we bounced back after going behind. The mentality of the boys to turn it around was amazing.
“Maybe towards the end of a season, the pressure is higher. Then, everyone has to be there and step up. I can’t predict how the last part of the season will go. But so far, so good. I just want to enjoy it. All of us are privileged and blessed to be playing for Liverpool and have players around you with so much quality, so let’s see what it brings.”
After the November break, Liverpool faces tough challenges, starting with a tricky away game at Southampton. They’ll then take on Real Madrid at Anfield Manchester City in the Premier League and in the Champions League, both at home.
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