Roy Hodgson said he is unhappy with the 32-year-old Liverpool player and his behavior today
Crystal Palace manager Roy Hodgson was furious with Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk this afternoon. Van Dijk produced a superb performance for Liverpool to help them to a dramatic 2-1 win at Selhurst Park on Saturday. But not everyone was happy with the Dutchman. The Reds No.4 was involved in one of the biggest talking points of the game as it was center Jordan Ayew’s first of two substitutes on the day. Ayew blocked Van Dijk’s path as he stood over the ball and prepared to take Liverpool’s free-kick. With the courtier standing in front of him, Virgil took an early free kick. The referee was not happy with Ayew’s time wasting and gave him a standing ovation. i understand But when Hodgson spoke to TNT Sports afterwards, he was clearly hurt by the incident. The Palace boss even went so far as to reprimand Van Dijk for his “very disappointing” behaviour. “Van Dijk took advantage to give him the first yellow card from two yards, which is very disappointing,” said the 76-year-old. “I think if you’re a Liverpool football club, you don’t need players of Van Dijk’s stature and caliber in the game to try and get a player booked to kick the ball.” Hodgson hits Van Dijk This is a really pathetic response from Hodgson. For those who have followed his time as Liverpool manager closely, this will come as no surprise. But questioning the integrity of a player like Van Dijk is not beyond the pale, even for him. Of course, Virgil pointed out to the referee that Ayew had blocked him. He blocked her. When Palace scored, it was a clear attempt to take time out of the Ghanaian and earned a reserve. What would he have done if Van Dijk had waited for him to move? Why should Van Dijk expect him to move? Everything depends entirely on the Palace striker. Also, the absolute last person on the planet who should be lecturing Liverpool Football Club on their standards is Mr Roy Hodgson. The former England manager insulted and belittled his six months at the club and showed he had no idea what Liverpool FC had done. On the other hand, Van Dijk has been a perfect fit for the Reds from day one. Also a perfect captain. We understand Hodgson’s frustration at Ayew’s soft red card. But the two culprits here are the referee and the player himself. Leave Virgo out of it.