"I think his drop-off" - Pundit on Virgil van Dijk's form

Pundit Paul Robinson has given his opinion on Virgil van Dijk's early season form.

The Liverpool centre-back has looked a bit lethargic out on the pitch.

But, Robinson is under the impression that Van Dijk has been a little bit off the pace due to the fact that he is playing in a struggling team.

Speaking with Football Insider, he said the following: “He is as fit as anybody.

“I think his drop-off in form is nothing to do with fitness levels or fatigue from last season. I just think he is playing in a team that is struggling. He has been more exposed than he has been in previous seasons.

“Liverpool are conceding goals cheaply. When the praise comes from keeping clean sheets, the criticism is going to come when you are playing poorly and conceding goals.

“I think Van Dijk is a victim of the team’s performance rather than any individual struggles. I do not think there is a hangover from last year.”

Anfield Watch Verdict

Robinson could be correct. You can be made to look a pretty average player if everyone around you is struggling.

But, it's not like Van Dijk has been horrendous. The centre-back has averaged a WhoScored player rating of 7.11 in the early stages of the 2022-23 Premier League campaign, which backs up the aforementioned argument.

So, we won't be too critical of Van Dijk. It is also important to remember that the Dutchman has given so much to the club.

Van Dijk has helped the Reds win the Champions League, Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup, Premier League title, League Cup, FA Cup and Community Shield.