Virgil van Dijk delivers a straightforward statement following the Liverpool penalty controversy at the Crystal Palace match…

Virgil van Dijk delivers a straightforward message following the penalty controversy involving Liverpool against Crystal Palace.

Van Dijk expressed that he remains unfazed by external pressures surrounding Liverpool this season, especially as the team currently holds the best defensive record in the Premier League.

The recent 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace marked the fifth clean sheet for the club in just seven league matches.

As a result, Arne Slot’s squad heads into the international break at the top of the league standings. Liverpool’s captain, Van Dijk, has played every minute of the league season, with only two goals conceded thus far.

While he acknowledged the contributions of all players to the team’s strong defensive performance, the Dutch defender emphasized the importance of maintaining focus, given the season’s early phase. “We continue to push forward and work hard,” he stated to TNT Sports.

“We are never complacent. We needed Alisson’s help on two occasions, but that’s what we aim to minimize. Everyone plays a part in achieving clean sheets.”

Concerns have arisen regarding Alisson, who had to leave the pitch due to what seems to be a third hamstring injury in nine months.

The goalkeeper showed visible frustration as he exited and was seen limping after the match concluded.

With Caoimhin Kelleher sidelined due to illness, Vitezslav Jaros made his debut in Alisson’s absence and successfully maintained a clean sheet.

Van Dijk praised the squad’s mentality, noting that they have only lost once this season while currently enjoying a six-game winning streak.

Van Dijk expressed, “There is always a level of expectation—regardless of how the outside world perceives us, it doesn’t concern us much.

Our focus is on improving and striving for success until the very end. While we have accumulated a significant number of points, we aim to achieve even more.”

In the second half, Van Dijk was involved in a penalty appeal from Crystal Palace, who claimed he should have been penalized for holding Marc Guehi. However, the on-field officials and VAR dismissed the claims.

Reflecting on the victory at Selhurst Park, the 33-year-old remarked, “It’s always challenging to play here.

Historically, the results have been closely contested. We scored an excellent goal, and while we could have performed better in the second half, we anticipated their increased pressure.

This win allows us to conclude our run on a positive note before the international break.”