• It’s easy to blame other players, but he (Rooney) knows very well that we work together and try to help each other through this period

Liverpool captain and solid Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk issued a strong and decisive response to Manchester United “legend” Wayne Rooney, following criticism from Rooney regarding van Dijk’s leadership style at “the Reds” during a period of poor team results

In statements reported by news agencies on Sunday, van Dijk showed respect for Rooney’s career but was firm in describing the nature of the criticism

The Liverpool captain said: Honestly, what Rooney said doesn’t hurt me. Speaking about this player specifically, he is undoubtedly a great legend in the game, inspiring many, and I can only say positive things about him

Van Dijk then added, directing a pointed message: But I see this comment as a kind of lazy criticism

He explained why he called the criticism “lazy,” noting that blaming individuals is the easiest path during crises, which does not reflect the reality within the team

The Dutch defender continued: It’s easy to blame other players, but he (Rooney) knows very well that we work together and try to help each other through this period