Roy Keane Raises Eyebrow at Van Dijk Winner as Reds Edge West Ham | OneFootball

Van Dijk Delivers but Roy Keane Questions Legitimacy of Liverpool Winner

Liverpool Edge Closer To Glory

Liverpool’s relentless pursuit of another Premier League title took a giant step forward with a gritty 2-1 victory over West Ham United, thanks to a late header from Virgil van Dijk. Yet, as jubilation spread across Anfield, an old adversary was quick to pour cold water on the celebrations.

Roy Keane, never one to pull punches, offered a typically barbed assessment of the Dutchman’s decisive moment. “Nice little shove there, isn’t there? VAR might wanna take a look at that, but obviously not!” he quipped, raising eyebrows during his Sky Sports analysis.

Keane’s sarcasm masked genuine scrutiny. Moments before Van Dijk’s winner, Liverpool had stumbled—courtesy of a defensive mix-up that led to a West Ham equaliser. The Reds had taken the lead through Luis Díaz, but then a miscommunication between Van Dijk and Andy Robertson resulted in a cruel own goal.

Just two minutes later, Van Dijk rose highest from a corner and made amends. Yet for Keane, the goal was marred by what he believed to be a foul on Niclas Füllkrug. “But, you know what Liverpool do? Champions, they find a way to win,” Keane added, his tone balancing critique with begrudging admiration.

Photo: IMAGO

Captain’s Redemption at a Crucial Hour

There’s no ignoring the drama Van Dijk has brought to Liverpool’s title chase. From calamity to captain’s glory in the space of mere minutes, it was a microcosm of a career shaped by resolve and redemption. His header wasn’t just a goal—it was a statement.

In matches like these, margins are thin and emotions raw. West Ham’s late pressure had stirred anxiety in the home stands, particularly after the own goal. But Van Dijk didn’t shrink. He stood tall, took responsibility, and settled matters in the opposition box.

For Liverpool, it was a moment that could define their campaign. Van Dijk, often the calm presence at the back, reminded everyone he can be decisive at the front, too.

Title Race Tightens as Slot Stays Focused

Arne Slot’s side are now just two wins away from the Premier League crown. With six points separating them from mathematical certainty, the pressure mounts—but so does the belief.

Reflecting post-match, the Liverpool boss said: “It was definitely a significant goal because now we need two more wins.

“I think the first 33 games have showed how difficult it is for us to win a game of football. It sounds weird when you are so many points clear but that it is the current situation of the Premier League.

“To win this one is nice, now we know we only have to win twice. We know what we have to do which is difficult but we will fight for it as hard as we can.”

It’s that kind of honesty that resonates with supporters. There are no easy games at this stage, no foregone conclusions. But with Van Dijk delivering in both ends of the pitch—and even attracting barbs from old foes—it’s clear Liverpool are still writing their own script.