Van Dijk admits Liverpool have only themselves to blame in title race stumble

By SABC Sport
6th January 2025

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has conceded that his team can only blame themselves after faltering in their bid to solidify their lead at the top of the Premier League.

The Reds were held to a frustrating 2-2 draw against rivals Manchester United on Sunday, a match that had the potential to propel Liverpool into a commanding position over Arsenal in the title race.

Despite their opponents' poor league form - United currently languish in 13th place under new manager Ruben Amorim - Liverpool approached the game with caution, refusing to underestimate their struggling adversaries. However, a series of missed opportunities ultimately cost them dearly.

"It could have been a lot worse if we are absolutely honest with ourselves," Van Dijk told Sky Sports.

"They had a big chance in the end that could have been a lot worse than where we are now. I'm definitely disappointed with dropping points at home but it is what is and we have to move on and we will.

"We found the 2-1 and then it is about trying to manage the game and keep the ball for longer than three and four passes. We lost the ball too easily at times and then we were more open than we should have been. We're not perfect, we're still learning and we have to learn from this as well."

Liverpool's frustration was compounded by their inability to capitalise on United's own errors.

Rasmus Hojlund and Harry Maguire squandered excellent opportunities for the Red Devils, underscoring the disjointed state of their side as they adapt to Amorim's methods.

Despite their current struggles, United's resilience forced Liverpool to rue their inefficiency in front of goal.

The draw leaves Jurgen Klopp's men reflecting on what might have been, as Arsenal remain within touching distance at the summit of the league.