Virgil van Dijk
Dutch pundit Hans Kraay Jr. has hit out at the English press over what he perceives as unwarranted criticism of Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk.
Voetbal Primeur report on comments from the pundit today. He’s taken aim for the English press after Van Dijk impressed for the Netherlands.
The pair were among the best for the Dutch in the recent 2-1 win over Norway. That win, and performance, was something of a respite from Liverpool’s troubles this season.
Both players have faced criticism as Liverpool have struggled to defend their title this season. Van Dijk, in particular, has looked a shadow of the player who has dominated forwards in the past. That may be down to an overload of matches, something he’s hinted at himself this week.
English criticism
That has led to criticism in the English press. Some have even gone as far as to suggest the 34-year-old is now past his best. Hans Kraay Jr. thinks that’s all nonsense, though.
“I thought Virgil van Dijk was sovereign,” he said in his column for Voetbal International.
“With another few lovely cross balls, like the ones he delivers to Mohamed Salah at Liverpool. Van Dijk scored an incredibly beautiful header; from a corner taken by our Teun, he hung in the air for a minute or two.
“The ball also ended up somewhat behind him, but what a magnificent header.”
“Completely lost their minds”
He was then reminded of the criticism coming from England and didn’t hold back in his response.
“In England, the analysts, columnists, and the self-proclaimed know-it-alls have completely lost their minds,” he added.
“After four league matches this season, Van Dijk was dubbed the very best central defender ever in the Premier League.
“Four games later, and two Arne Slot defeats further along, it was more or less over for Virgil. In short: Virgil van Dijk’s career was almost over.”
A reminder of Liverpool quality
For Kraay, the Norway match appears to have been proof that the Liverpool captain remains a key figure.
Doubts may have crept in about him this season but as far as he’s concerned, Virgil van Dijk is the same top-level player he always was.
He’s aware of the noise around the veteran, but he’s not listening to it. Perhaps that’s advice that Van Dijk should listen to carefully.
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— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) March 31, 2026