Former premier league striker claims Liverpool star looks ‘flustered’ | OneFootball

Deeney highlights Liverpool star’s growing frustration

Liverpool have endured a difficult start to the season, and Troy Deeney has drawn attention to one player who appears noticeably angrier on the pitch. The Reds enter the international break having lost three consecutive matches across all competitions, leaving fans concerned about their defensive solidity.

While Arne Slot’s side still picked up points through last-minute goals earlier in the season, frustration seems to be mounting at Anfield. Deeney, speaking on The Football Exchange, believes the source of that frustration is clear.

Virgil van Dijk showing signs of agitation

Liverpool’s defensive unit has been a model of consistency for several years, with Virgil van Dijk central to their stability. The Dutchman has long provided a calming influence, organising the backline and maintaining composure under pressure.

However, Deeney has noticed a shift in the Liverpool captain’s demeanour. “The biggest telltale sign for that is when you watch Virgil and I watch Virgil closely because I think he’s amazing as you know, but he’s so frustrated with people now. And he’s getting angrier on the pitch. He never used to seem flustered, and now you see him screaming and shouting at people,” Deeney explained.

Van Dijk’s visible frustration appears directed at some of his defensive teammates. Milos Kerkez has been criticised by Gary Neville for playing “like a baby” since joining Liverpool, while Ibrahima Konate’s performances have been heavily scrutinised by fans.

Photo: IMAGO

Defensive struggles becoming more obvious

Liverpool have managed just two clean sheets this season, victories against Arsenal and Burnley, highlighting a vulnerability at the back. With defensive frailties now evident, questions are being raised about the Reds’ ability to defend their Premier League title.

In the current league table, only Manchester United have conceded more goals than Liverpool in the top half of the Premier League. This defensive record could jeopardise their ambitions and leaves Slot with tough decisions over personnel and tactics.

Fans have also expressed concern over the club’s summer transfer window, with the failure to sign Marc Guehi now looking increasingly costly. The squad lacks depth in key defensive areas, an issue that cannot be remedied until the next window in summer 2026.

Deeney’s observations underline a growing tension at Anfield. Van Dijk, often a figure of calm and reassurance, now seems visibly frustrated with the performance of his colleagues. That change of temperament reflects the scale of the problem Liverpool face at the back, and it cannot be ignored.

For Slot, the challenge is twofold. He must find a way to steady the defence and manage the visible frustration within the squad while continuing to aim for results at the top of the Premier League. Liverpool’s title defence was built on organisation and resilience, and with Van Dijk showing signs of agitation, the Reds must act quickly to avoid a season defined by defensive instability.

If Liverpool fail to address these issues promptly, they risk not only slipping in the table but also undermining the leadership and authority of a player who has been crucial to their success for years. For supporters, it is a reminder that even the best players can be affected by collective shortcomings, and that patience, tactical adjustments, and reinforcements may be needed sooner rather than later.