Alan Shearer Fires Back with Fiery Response to Virgil van Dijk’s ‘Absurd’ Complaints
Alan Shearer minced no words as he launched a scathing response to Virgil van Dijk’s recent remarks about the excessive number of football matches players are subjected to.
The Liverpool standout had openly criticized the congested schedule in English football, just prior to the Netherlands’ Euro 2024 qualifiers against France and Greece. “In England, we believe the schedules are too hectic,” he asserted. “Players may be handsomely compensated, but it should never come at the expense of our well-being. We keep adding more and more games, and as players, we should voice our concerns and contribute to finding a solution.”
When probed about whether he would be willing to sacrifice 10% of his salary to play fewer matches, Van Dijk responded with an unequivocal “No.” He further added, “I don’t believe the number of games played should be tied to my salary.”
This isn’t the first instance of a high-profile player voicing concerns about fixture congestion, as Raphael Varane had previously issued a strongly-worded statement ahead of the new season.
However, Varane and Van Dijk’s complaints found no sympathy from Shearer, who offered a robust counterargument to the Dutch defender.
In an episode of The Rest Is Football podcast, Shearer declared, “Nonsense. Nonsense. Players are playing too much football? What? I mean, come on. I know you shouldn’t always bring up money, but you have larger squads than ever, more substitutes than ever, earning more money than ever, with access to the best physios, technology, and resources.”
The iconic former Newcastle United striker went on to say, “Give me a break, too much football? Goodness me. Did he say it’s England that plays too much football? I understand international football’s demands, but here in England, you can tell that I strongly disagree with that.”
Van Dijk is on track to participate in his fourth international match for the Netherlands this season, having already featured in seven games for Liverpool during this campaign.