Roy Keane slams 'arrogance' of Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk
In a fiery exchange following the goalless draw between Liverpool and Manchester United at Anfield on Sunday, United legend Roy Keane launched a scathing critique of Virgil van Dijk's post-match comments, branding them as "arrogant" and "disrespectful" towards his former team.
Van Dijk expressed his frustration after the match, insinuating that only Liverpool had come into the game trying to win it. This sparked an incensed reaction from Keane, who, speaking on Sky Sports, rebuked the Dutch defender's attitude.
"I played Liverpool many a time, and they were pretty pleased with a draw. I didn't like his message. I think he's out of order," he said.
“There’s a lot of arrogance coming out of him, dissing Manchester United like that," he said, adding: “He needs reminding that he is playing for a club that has won one title in 30-odd years."
“Manchester United are in a difficult place, just like Liverpool have been in a difficult place for many years. So maybe that arrogance backfired on him today.”
Disappointment
The debate escalated further when former Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge weighed in, suggesting that Van Dijk's frustration stemmed from his team's performance rather than a deliberate dig at United.
Sturridge defended Van Dijk, stating, "I don't think he dissed Man United. I just think he's disappointed Liverpool didn't do what they thought they would be able to do."
Jurgen Klopp's side dominated possession and had 34 shots on goal (compared to United's six) but were unable to make the breakthrough on the day.
Van Dijk himself came close with a header in the first half that was flicked over the bar by Andre Onana.
After the match, the Liverpool captain claimed the Reds were "superior" in all areas except the scoreline.
"If you see how we played the game, we had most of the ball and created some opportunities. There was only one team trying to win the game," he told Sky Sports.
"Unfortunately, it didn't happen. That is why it is frustrating because we want to win every game. Especially when you play against a team like them," he said, in reference to the Reds' great rivals.
"In the end, they are buzzing with a point, and we are disappointed with a point."