Ferdinand critical of Van Dijk: “It’s not rocket science”

Rio Ferdinand has criticised Virgil van Dijk for his role in last night’s Luis Suarez opening goal.

The Dutchman has been a rock at the heart of Liverpool’s defence all season, but a rare lapse in concentration at the Nou Camp saw Suarez sneak in behind to put the ball past Alisson.

And Ferdinand, a former centre-back for Manchester United, thinks the Reds defender should have done better.

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“Virgil van Dijk here, he’s at fault,” Ferdinand said.

“He can see Suarez there, he’s pointing where he wants it.

“It’s not rocket science, he’s right in front of him.

“That’s your man, the number nine of the back of the shirt. Static.

“Virgil van Dijk there, static. That’s criminal in that position.

“He’s got to be [Joel] Matip’s eyes and ears. Move Matip where you want him to maybe stop the ball in the first instance.

“But if not you have got to go with your man there.

“He’ll be disappointed with that I’m sure.”

Luis Garcia, who joined Ferdinand on the BT Sports panel, praised Jordi Alba and Suarez for their movement in the lead up to the goal.

“This pass is just brilliant,” Garcia said.

“You can expect Suarez to make the move but he kicked the ball just before Suarez made the move.

“Of course Suarez is a perfect centre-forward and knows where he’s got to be and where it’s going to be.”

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Source: anfieldhq.com