Van Dijk says Liverpool won’t ‘give up’ on title despite Manchester City setback
Virgil van Dijk has said Liverpool won’t ‘give up’ on the Premier League title despite the club’s crushing 3-0 defeat at Manchester City.
The champions were well beaten on a chastening evening at the Etihad, as goals from Erling Haaland, Nico Gonzalez and Jeremy Doku sealed success for the Citizens.
Liverpool looked off the pace from the opening minutes and were fortunate not to fall behind earlier than Haaland’s headed opener, with Giorgi Mamardashvili saving a penalty from the Norwegian.
The Reds thought they’d equalised when Van Dijk headed in a set piece, though the goal was contentiously disallowed with Andy Robertson deemed to be interfering from an offside position.
That moment was one of few positives for Arne Slot’s side, however, who were second-best. Doku, in particular, tormented the visitors, completing seven dribbles and creating three chances.
Defeat leaves Liverpool eighth in the Premier League table, and eight points behind leaders Arsenal heading into November’s international break. Despite that gap, Van Dijk insisted Liverpool will not give up as they bid to defend their crown.
“The first half was difficult. They were much more comfortable on the ball and it was difficult for our guys to put pressure on them,” Van Diijk reflected to Sky Sports.
“I don’t think there was a lot of danger, but Doku had a good game and it was difficult for Conor [Bradley] in the one on one at times. I don’t think we were much in trouble but we could have done better.
“We had to dig deep in the second half. We got more momentum in possession but out pressing wasn’t good enough.
“It’s about finding consistency and carrying on. Now we go to our countries, stay fit and be ready for a big run after. We are not going to give up whatsoever. We are in November and we are ready for a long season and a big fight.”
Read – Eight moments that defined the Liverpool vs Man City rivalry
See more – Premier League Team of the Week – Martinez, Doku, Thiago
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