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Liverpool held by Sunderland in chaotic Anfield draw
Liverpool's title defense suffered another setback on Wednesday after a 1-1 draw with Sunderland, a result overshadowed by defensive lapses from captain Virgil van Dijk and a late own goal that salvaged a point for the hosts.
Van Dijk's uncharacteristic struggles
Once the cornerstone of Liverpool's defense, Virgil van Dijk has faced mounting criticism this season. The 34-year-old Dutchman, who signed a two-year contract extension in the summer, was at the center of Wednesday's defensive woes. His misplaced pass in the 67th minute allowed Sunderland's Chemsdine Talbi to fire a 25-yard shot that struck van Dijk and evaded goalkeeper Alisson, giving the visitors the lead.
Former England captain Steph Houghton told BBC Radio 5 Live:
"Van Dijk gives the ball away and then he just drops off. It's the wrong decision. He needs to go to the ball. Him not making the decision means that no one else knows what to do."
Ex-Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp echoed the concerns on Sky Sports:
"Virgil van Dijk last season couldn't make a mistake. Every game he was imperious, but right now he's making mistakes and second-guessing himself."
Statistics reflect van Dijk's decline: his recovery tackles per game are at their lowest since joining Liverpool in 2018, while his interceptions have also dipped compared to last season.
Salah benched as Liverpool's attack falters
Mohamed Salah, another veteran who signed a new deal this summer, watched from the bench for the second consecutive Premier League match. The Egyptian forward, who has struggled for form this season, entered the game at halftime but failed to inspire a turnaround. Striker Alexander Isak, who scored his first league goal for Liverpool on Sunday, was similarly ineffective.
Van Dijk defended Salah's absence, stating:
"It's not like you have unlimited credit. Everyone has to perform. We all want the best for the club. I am pretty sure Mo will still be a big part of what we are trying to achieve because he is an amazing player and he has shown it consistently."
Late drama and Sunderland's resilience
Liverpool's equalizer arrived in the 81st minute when Florian Wirtz's shot deflected off Sunderland defender Nordi Mukiele and into the net. The hosts nearly snatched victory in stoppage time, but Federico Chiesa's last-ditch clearance denied Sunderland substitute Wilson Isidor after he rounded Alisson.
Sunderland, now sixth in the Premier League with 23 points, impressed under manager Régis Le Bris. Their attacking intent and defensive organization frustrated Liverpool, who created few clear chances despite dominating possession. Alisson made key saves to deny Trai Hume and Omar Alderete, while Sunderland hit the woodwork twice.
Slot's side left with more questions than answers
Liverpool's summer spending spree, totaling £450 million, has yet to yield dividends. Head coach Arne Slot's system appears unsettled, with defensive partners Ibrahima Konaté and Milos Kerkez also struggling for consistency. The team's lack of leadership and creativity was evident, with even a late rally after the equalizer lacking conviction.
Slot acknowledged the positives but admitted:
"We have to accept the point, but it could have been worse. There are things to build on, but we're not where we need to be."
With Liverpool's title defense faltering, Wednesday's performance underscored the challenges ahead for a squad in transition.
