Virgil van Dijk has insisted there is “no point” in looking at the Premier League table after Liverpool ended their incredible run of form with a 2-0 win over West Ham. The Reds captain believes the only way to silence his critics is to improve his performances and results after recent difficult times.
Strikes from Alexander Isak and Kodi Gakpo secured a 2-0 win at the London Stadium, the fourth win in 13 games for Arne Slott’s struggling side. The result proved enough to move Liverpool back into the top half of the division and move them within three points of the top four in a crowded table.
Van Dijk said: “It was an important win. I’m happy to get a clean sheet, but I don’t think we needed any extra determination in the situation we found ourselves in.”
“Criticism is part of the game and the people who criticize are paid for it. We just have to deal with what we can control and that is playing football on the pitch.
“We won, that’s all. Now we’re focused on Wednesday (home game against Sunderland). It’s going to be a very tough and tough game, but we’re ready for it.”
“There’s no point in looking at any standings. We didn’t do that last year and we shouldn’t do that now. The only thing we have to focus on is trying to find consistency in the way we play, defend and attack. It was a good win and we’ll move on from this.”
Liverpool were well supported by an enthusiastic away team who deliberately chanted the name of embattled manager Slott both during and after the game.
And when asked about the level of support, Van Dijk said: “It was very important. From what I’ve experienced, I don’t think that’s a problem at a club like Liverpool. So it’s a big credit to all of them and I hope they continue to support us.”
“It’s obviously up to us on the pitch to get the result we want, so that’s what we’re trying to do.”
Florian Wirtz returned to action after two games on the bench and put in an outstanding performance, while Joe Gomez also impressed in his first Premier League appearance in over 11 months, contributing to both attacks from right-back.
“He gave a great performance,” Van Dijk said. “Obviously it’s great to see him back and it’s equally great to see Flo back.
“Florian played very well against Frankfurt as well. It’s actually normal, it takes a little bit of time. Here he showed his quality with and without the ball.”
“I’m happy for him and I’m happy for all of us. It’s only one game so we have to keep going, get results and keep moving forward.”
Isak’s goal was his first in the Premier League in more than six months and his second in any competition since his £125m move from Newcastle in early September.
And Van Dijk added: “Hopefully it helps his confidence a lot, because we need him at his best and that’s important for all of us. I’m happy he got the goal. I’ve played against him and I’ve seen (finishes like that) against myself.”
