Virgil van Dijk dismisses Liverpool rift talk as Reds aim to build on Newcastle boost

The Reds have endured a difficult campaign and sit sixth in the Premier League. Saturday's 4-1 victory over Newcastle United provided a much-needed response after Liverpool had gone five league matches without a win.

Van Dijk admitted performances have not met expectations but said criticism is unavoidable, especially for defending champions.

"It's like us players as well - if you don't perform you get criticism and that's part and parcel of the game," Van Dijk said. "We have to perform. That's what we didn't do on a consistent basis.

"Saturday was a good performance and the same for midweek against Qarabag. Now it's down to us to work this week on Man City and do that again."

The Liverpool skipper also addressed scrutiny surrounding head coach Arne Slot, warning that social media criticism is becoming an increasing challenge for players.

"If you read all that stuff, one week you could be the hero and the next week the villain," he said. "For the next generation it will be a very big challenge."

Van Dijk stressed the outside noise has not disrupted the dressing room, despite acknowledging the team has faced difficulties.

"The matter of fact is we are Premier League champions and we have not been good enough on a consistent basis," he added. "The criticism comes and we have to accept it.

"I don't think there's any disharmony. There are challenges, but it's about dealing with them together and fixing things as a team."

Liverpool's unity was evident during the Newcastle win when Ibrahima Konate scored an injury-time goal on his first appearance after returning early from compassionate leave following the death of his father, sparking emotional celebrations among teammates.

The Reds now turn their focus to a key upcoming clash against Manchester City as they aim to build consistency and climb the table.