Former Netherlands international striker Wim Kieft has launched an astonishing rant at countryman and Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk, labelling him "lazy" and accusing him of thinking he is "the finished footballer".
The 29-year-old has been the top-flight's best defender his two seasons at Anfield, playing an integral role in the Reds winning the Champions League and then the Premier League crown last term.
His form also saw him finish as second behind Lionel Messi in the Ballon d'Or, but Kieft has claimed he often "runs away" from defensive work in a scathing attack.
Van Dijk was at fault for one of Leeds United's goals in their season opener, with the central defender failing to clear the ball over Patrick Bamford, in a manner Jamie Carragher claimed was "arrogant".
And Kieft, who made 42 appearances for the national side, has warned van Dijk that he needs to remain hyper critical, if he is to stay at the top of his game.
He told De Telegraaf: "He is not sharp, he behaves with the Oranje and Liverpool like the finished star, the great coaching leader, who shows a little too much that he does not like his fellow players.
"At the same time, he plays lazy and nonchalant himself. He makes mistakes and often runs away from defensive handiwork in matches.
"With his status, he should be at the forefront of the battle.
"It took Van Dijk a long time to get to the top international level.
"He has been there for about two seasons now, but it is important that Van Dijk remains very critical of himself.
"His environment also plays an important role in this. It's OK if his trainers shake him up a lot."
Van Dijk's error against Leeds was just his third in a Liverpool shirt since the beginning of the 2018/19 season.
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