Virgil van Dijk will be ‘annoyed’ as controversial Liverpool footage analysed – pundit
Alan Hutton has claimed Virgil van Dijk will be “annoyed” to have given away a penalty as Liverpool drew 2-2 with Fulham on Saturday.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Villa and Spurs defender said the 31-year-old produced a “disappointing” display at Craven Cottage.
As shown on Sky Sports (8 August), referee Andy Madley awarded a penalty after he adjudged Van Dijk to have tripped Aleksandar Mitrovic inside the area.
Mitrovic slotted home to spot kick to put the newly promoted side 2-1 in front.
ESPN revealed (6 August) that the Fulham striker was the first player in the Premier League to dribble past Van Dijk and win a penalty.
When asked if Van Dijk’s performance at Craven Cottage was surprising, Hutton told Football Insider: “Yes.
“I think it was fast feet that got round him and got past him. He’ll be disappointed with it.
“I always think with players, it takes them a few weeks to get up to speed. They’ve done pre-season and done the hard work and played games but to actually get to that next level where you’re playing in the Premier League against top opposition, it takes a few weeks to get back to where you want to be.
“I don’t worry about it, yes he gave away a penalty and it was a little bit sloppy but we know how good he is so I don’t think anybody would really be worried. I think if anything he’ll be annoyed with his own performance because he knows he can play better.“
In other news, a pundit has suggested Roberto Firmino is facing Liverpool axe after ‘scary’ development.