Talbi’s goal wasn’t the only issue — Van Dijk did something else that pushed Steve Nicol over the edge.

 

 

Steve Nicol didn’t hold back as he tore into Virgil van Dijk following Liverpool’s frustrating 1-1 draw with Sunderland.

The captain was blamed for both a sloppy giveaway that led to Chemsdine Talbi’s opener and a late defensive collapse that nearly gifted Sunderland a stoppage-time winner.

 

Nicol slammed Van Dijk on ESPN FC, accusing him of shrinking instead of blocking the shot and failing to lead the team when it mattered most:

“He just strolled forward… didn’t look… didn’t organise anything.”

 

Van Dijk did make some important headers, but his key mistakes overshadowed them.

With a huge trip to Leeds next, Liverpool will be counting on their skipper to respond with a commanding performance.