Virgil van Dijk affirmed that Liverpool supporters have a “right” to voice their concerns over rising ticket prices and encouraged the club to seek a resolution, stating that the current situation “benefits no one.”
The club announced plans to increase ticket prices over the next three seasons, inciting backlash from fan groups, who organized a protest during Saturday’s match against Fulham, where a banner was prominently displayed in the Anfield stand.
Following the match, Liverpool’s captain Van Dijk conveyed a strong message to the club regarding the circumstances.
“The fans are the heart and soul of the club,” the defender noted. “If they feel this way, protesting is their valid right. I hope a solution can be reached with the club. These issues extend far beyond my responsibilities as captain.”
“In my view, our supporters are the club. They always have been, both before and after my time here. It’s crucial to resolve these matters, as they benefit no one.”
In other news, Van Dijk expressed confidence in teenager Rio Ngumoha, believing he would rise to the occasion if selected to start for Liverpool against Paris Saint-Germain.
The 17-year-old showcased his talent by scoring the first goal in an impressive performance, leading the Reds to a necessary 2-0 victory over Fulham in the Premier League.
This win brought relief to Arne Slot’s squad, who had experienced setbacks in their previous matches against Manchester City and PSG.
Now, they face the challenging task of hosting the French side while trailing 2-0 on aggregate in their Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday.
Ngumoha’s recent performances provide Liverpool with optimism, and Van Dijk believes he could have a significant impact if called upon.
The Liverpool captain commented, “He would handle it well.”
– Rio Ngumoha and Mohamed Salah lead Liverpool to a comeback win
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“He’s a dedicated young player who is eager to improve and has big aspirations. It’s up to him and his support system to ensure he remains grounded. I’m not concerned that he will change in that regard.
“It’s the manager’s decision regarding the lineup and strategy for Tuesday. Regardless of who starts, everyone needs to feel incorporated into something special. That’s crucial for our endeavor to overcome PSG.”
Ngumoha, who made history earlier this season as Liverpool’s youngest goalscorer with a dramatic late winner against Newcastle when he was just 16, is now the club’s youngest Premier League scorer at Anfield at 17 years and 225 days, breaking Raheem Sterling’s record.
Van Dijk remarked, “He’s taken the record from Raheem, which is fantastic for him and should motivate him even more. Achievements like this shouldn’t be taken for granted, and I know he won’t. He needs to keep pushing forward.”
Ngumoha kickstarted the team’s scoring when he outmaneuvered Timothy Castagne and curled the ball into the far corner after 36 minutes.
Mohamed Salah soon doubled the lead, and the hosts maintained their advantage, reinforcing their hopes of Champions League qualification for next season despite a spirited attempt by Fulham in the second half.
Van Dijk noted, “Obviously, we are in the final stage of the season, so it’s essential to secure wins, and that’s what we accomplished today. Nothing more, nothing less. It was very significant.”
Information from PA contributed to this report.