Liverpool Captain Van Dijk Urges Defensive Improvement After Community Shield Loss

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has emphasized the need for collective defensive improvement following their Community Shield defeat to Crystal Palace, acknowledging that conceding goals in every pre-season match except one is a concern. Van Dijk took responsibility alongside his teammates and highlighted that defensive solidity is a team effort involving the entire squad, not just the backline or goalkeeper. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher also noted Liverpool's defensive vulnerability, pointing out that aggressive man-to-man marking often leaves space behind for opponents to exploit. Despite Liverpool's attacking promise, Van Dijk stressed the importance of returning to the defensive standards that earned them the most clean sheets last season if they hope to retain the Premier League title. The club is expected to strengthen its squad defensively before the league opener against Bournemouth, with interest in players like Marc Guéhi and the use of new full-backs Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez. Van Dijk's comments reflect a broader consensus that defensive cohesion must be improved quickly to compete successfully in the upcoming season.