Jamie Carragher makes brutal Virgil van Dijk comment live on Sky Sports after Liverpool moment

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has criticised Virgil van Dijk for his mistake that led to Southampton's equaliser on Sunday afternoon.

Arne Slot's side have a huge opportunity to move eight points clear of rivals Manchester City in the Premier League standings should they emerge victorious at St Mary's. The Reds appeared to be on their way to another significant win after Dominik Szoboszlai capitalised on a mistake from the hosts and fired Liverpool in front after 30 minutes.

However, a little over 10 minutes later, Van Dijk's sloppiness cost them possession and Andy Robertson was eventually penalised for a challenge on Tyler Dibling. Caoimhin Kelleher saved the initial penalty from Adam Armstrong, but couldn't keep out the rebound as Southampton drew level.

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Carragher, who made over 700 appearances for Liverpool during his playing days, placed the blame on Liverpool's captain, despite it being Robertson's foul that resulted in the penalty. The equaliser came as a huge setback for Liverpool, who were just starting to find their feet after Szoboszlai's opener.

"It started with Van Dijk," he said on Sky Sports commentary. "What is he doing? A backheel there. Really? Then you are on the back foot."

Liverpool are next in action against Real Madrid midweek in the Champions League before the visit of Manchester City in the Premier League next Sunday. If Slot's side are to drop points against Southampton, City can put themselves within three points with a victory at Anfield.