Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has delivered a stark and honest assessment of a recurring issue plaguing Arne Slot's side, admitting that conceding goals from set-pieces "hurts" and must be urgently addressed.
The Anfield Anxiety After Wolves Strike
Despite securing a 2-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield to climb to fourth in the Premier League, the match ended on a nervous note. A first-half lead, established by goals from Ryan Gravenberch and a maiden Liverpool strike for record signing Florian Wirtz, was threatened when Wolves defender Santiago Bueno scored from a corner in the second period.
Van Dijk pinpointed the goal as a symptom of a wider problem, highlighting the danger of the "second phase" after the initial set-piece delivery. "We have defended so many set-pieces very well," said the Dutch defender. "But the fact is we've conceded too many goals like that and it hurts. We have to improve that."
Slot's Blunt Assessment of a Costly Flaw
The skipper's concerns were echoed by manager Arne Slot, who offered a remarkably frank critique of his team's performance from dead-ball situations at both ends of the pitch. The Dutch coach noted that his team has now conceded 12 Premier League goals from set-pieces this season.
"Unfortunately, we are maybe the only team that hardly ever scores from a set-piece. And even worse, we constantly concede from them," Slot admitted. This fundamental flaw has persisted despite a generally positive run of form that has seen Liverpool win three consecutive matches and remain unbeaten in six.
Van Dijk elaborated on the specific tactical failure, stating, "I'd say at least 75 per cent of the time - or even more - it's not even about the first contact, it's the second phase that is the killer." This was precisely the case for Bueno's goal, where he reacted quickest after goalkeeper Alisson Becker had made an initial block.
Wirtz Joy Amid Defensive Concerns
The match was notable for a positive milestone, as German international Florian Wirtz, the club's £116 million summer signing, finally opened his account for Liverpool. Van Dijk was among the first to celebrate with the 22-year-old, expressing his delight for a player adapting to the rigours of English football.
"He's getting used to playing for Liverpool and what we want to do as a team. He's getting used to the intensity," Van Dijk explained, noting that Wirtz suffered from cramp after 70 minutes. "He is a very intelligent player who is so comfortable on the ball. He finds space between the lines and can be very important."
While pleased with the three points and Wirtz's contribution, Van Dijk refused to get carried away with Liverpool's league position. With a packed schedule ahead, including an FA Cup run and the Champions League knockout stages, his focus remained on immediate improvement.
"We just need to try to find consistency and wins," he stated. "Let's see what the season brings. The only focus we should have is being in the best shape we can for the next game." That next challenge begins with a tough run of fixtures against Leeds United, Fulham, and Arsenal, where resolving the set-piece Achilles' heel will be paramount.
