Virgil van Dijk slams Liverpool players after Fenerbahce defeat - 'They should be disappointed'

Van Dijk criticised Liverpool's defensive display in the 3-2 Champions League loss to Fenerbahce, saying the manner of defeat was unacceptable and vowing improvements before Sunday's trip to Crystal Palace.

Liverpool suffered a 3-2 defeat to Fenerbahce in the Champions League on Wednesday, a result that left captain Virgil van Dijk frustrated with his team's defensive performance. The Reds took an early lead through Trey Nyoni's volley but conceded before half-time when Mason Greenwood's free-kick deflected past Alisson off Jeremy Jacquet. Alexander Isak restored Liverpool's advantage, but Fenerbahce scored twice in six minutes through Archie Brown and Vedat Muriqi to secure their first Champions League win since 2008.

Van Dijk admitted the manner of the collapse was unacceptable, particularly the defensive lapses on set pieces. Liverpool have now conceded 10 goals in four Champions League fixtures this season. "We cannot lose in the manner we did today," Van Dijk said, adding that while he was angry, everyone on the pitch had reason to be disappointed. He acknowledged the team must improve defensively, especially in Europe, before facing Crystal Palace on Sunday—a match he described as "massive" as Liverpool look to avoid a third straight defeat before the international break.