"He's basically doing nothing" - Virgil van Dijk slammed by Dutch legend after Italy defeat

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has come under fire from a Dutch legend after another lacklustre performance for the Netherlands.

The Dutch were beaten 3-2 by Italy in the Nations League third-place play-off on Sunday, with goals from Federico Dimarco, Davide Frattesi and Federico Chiesa securing victory for the Azzurri.

Meanwhile, Spain were crowned champions after beating Croatia on penalties after their goalless final in Rotterdam.

It was a disappointing end to the competition for the Netherlands, who were beaten 4-2 by Croatia in their semi-final last week.

Van Dijk came under first after that defeat and he was once again criticised for his defending for Italy's third goal on Sunday, which proved to be decisive.

The Dutch captain backed off from Chiesa inside the box, allowing him the time and space to fire a scuffed shot past Netherlands goalkeeper Justin Bijlow.

After the defeat, Dutch legend Rafael van der Vaart slammed the Liverpool defender.

"Virgil van Dijk is being criticised and rightly so," said former Real Madrid and Tottenham midfielder Van der Vaart.

"For 20 minutes I thought he is back, but that moment with Chiesa.. he is basically doing nothing."

Van der Vaart went on to suggest that Van Dijk could be struggling for the national side without his regular centre-back partner Matthijs de Ligt, who pulled out of the squad last week through injury.

"We are missing Matthijs de Ligt in his current form, let's not forget that," added Van der Vaart.

Van Dijk 'ashamed' of Italy defeat

Speaking after the defeat to Italy, Van Dijk said he felt "ashamed" of the final result.

"It's just not good enough," said the Liverpool defender.

"The first half was bad. This can't happen. You play for your honour today. I feel ashamed."

Liverpool will be hoping Van Dijk can rediscover his best form ahead of the 2023/24 season after a disappointing campaign with the Reds.

Jurgen Klopp's side face German side Karlsruher in their first pre-season friendly on July 19, with their opening Premier League fixture coming away at Chelsea on August 13.

Topics: Virgil Van Dijk, Liverpool, Netherlands, UEFA Nations League, Rafael van der Vaart, Football

Rory O'Callaghan

Rory O'Callaghan is Editorial Lead at SPORTbible. He has previously worked for Sky Sports News, MailOnline and Reach covering football, cricket, boxing and MMA. Tested daily as a Liverpool fan in a Manchester office.

@rory_ocallaghan