Virgil van Dijk, the captain of Liverpool, has criticized Everton for showing up for “their cup final” against the Reds in Wednesday’s Premier League derby.
Liverpool were on the brink of going nine points clear at the top of the Premier League table after Mohamed Salah’s goal 14 minutes from time in the derby at Goodison Park.
But David Moyes’ men equalized, thanks to James Tarkowski’s stunning goal deep into added time, which sparked epic celebrations for the home fans.
The final whistle followed shortly after, with more chaos erupting at Goodison Park.
Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucoure opted to celebrate in front of the traveling Liverpool supporters, shushing the away fans.
However, Van Dijk was not pleased with the hosts, as he told TNT Sport after the game that the outcome of the encounter was a big blow for Arne Slot’s side.
“They do the same things that they always do; they are very direct, the fight for the first ball, the second ball,” Van Dijk said.
“Obviously, we all know this is their cup final, and they will try to do everything in their power to make it difficult and try and win.
“We have seen it last year; we saw how difficult they made it, and this year you see them scoring at the end. It is a big boost for them but a blow for us.”
Liverpool will now face Wolves in their next Premier League game on Sunday at Anfield.
