Virgil van Dijk fires back at Marco van Basten's brutal criticism after Netherlands draw against Ecuador

Virgil van Dijk has hit back at Marco van Basten after he slammed his performance in Netherlands' draw against Ecuador.

The Netherlands were held a 1-1 draw with Ecuador in their second group stage game following their 2-0 victory against Senegal in their World Cup opener.

Manchester United target Cody Gakpo gave his team the lead in just the sixth minute, but former Premier League forward Enner Valencia cancelled out his strike as he slotted home from close range to secure a point.

Analysing the game, Dutch legend Van Basten, who helped his national team win the European Championship in 1988, took aim at the Liverpool star.

Virgil van Dijk in action for the Netherlands. Image: Alamy

He blamed the defender for Valencia's goal on Friday, questioning his defensive stance and claiming he doesn't take the lead.

Speaking on Dutch television, he exclaimed: "Van Dijk is just waiting and watching him shoot. What is he looking at? He needs to be on top of him. He just lets him shoot.

"He doesn't take the lead. He takes care of nothing in the team. He makes a sound, but he doesn't say anything. This is what he does."

The Dutch captain was asked about Van Basten's scathing review after the game and he didn't hold back.

In his post-match interview, he said: "I don't think he is ever positive, so what am I supposed to do with it? It's easy to talk from the studio.

"Me failing as a captain? What do you want me to do with that info? I am always up front. I lead the team the best way possible."

The Netherlands sit at the top of Group A, level on points with Ecuador, with just one game remaining in the group stage round.

Louis van Gaal's team face Qatar while Ecuador take on Senegal - both games take place next Tuesday.