Liverpool captain contradicts his coach's comments and backs Darwin Núñez again

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk spoke on Wednesday after the 2-0 victory over Newcastle in the Premier League and once again publicly backed Darwin Núñez, as he did last week after the match against Aston Villa, when the Uruguayan missed an incredible goal.

“We all have a big role to play. I said that after Villa. We are all in this together and we need everyone, and he is a big part of our team and when he comes on he has to have a positive impact,” he told reporters, adding: “Today [Wednesday] the lads who came on made an impact and that is what we need to continue like this.”

"It's the minimum that has been asked of us since day one, but I think it's the minimum to play for Liverpool anyway," said the Dutch defender.

He added about the Uruguayan: “It was more his fault and it remains his fault [the chance he missed against Aston Villa], and I think he showed a great reaction today in his work rate when he came into action. That should be the minimum and he knows it and he has to continue like this.”

Criticism from his coach

Arne Slot publicly criticised him in yesterday's pre-match press conference. "I helped him by telling him that it's okay to miss a chance, but it's the second game in a row that I haven't been happy with his sacrifice, neither against Wolves nor Villa," he said.

“I can’t accept that a player doesn’t give his all. I’m clear about that. I can accept it once, but twice is too much. If you miss an opportunity, you have to fight for the team. I’m not saying he didn’t do it, but he hasn’t been the Darwin he always was, the one the fans love. That’s because he always works very hard,” added the Dutchman.