Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk shared a heartwarming yet slightly frustrating moment with Kyle Walker before Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Manchester City.
The Dutchman revealed he was “annoyed” with Kyle Walker and referee Chris Kavanagh after they started the coin toss without him, interrupting a special interaction with his mascot.
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Van Dijk addressed the situation post-match, explaining the cause of his visible irritation. Many assured it stemmed from the Reds being forced to attack the Kop end in the first half – a rare sight at Anfield. However, the towering defender clarified:
“I was annoyed by the fact that he started the toss without me even acknowledging [it]. I don’t take it for granted. I enjoy every minute here, it feels like home.”
Boy Interrupted: Van Dijk annoyed with Walker
The reason for his delayed arrival at the coin toss was both touching and heartwarming. Van Dijk was busy spending time with six-year-old Isaac Kearney. He is a Liverpool-loving mascot with Wolf-Hirschhorn Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder affecting cognitive and physical development.
“I was obviously busy with my mascot, Isaac. Obviously took a little bit of time but he started the coin toss but he started the coin toss already quite quickly.
So I was a little bit annoyed by that because I think just wait but anyway, good game and we move on.”
Isaac is a member of the Liverpool Disabled Supporters Association (LDSA). He has become a beloved figure among the Reds’ players, thanks to his infectious smile and love for the club.
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Videos of him singing Liverpool anthems have gone viral. And last week was one of the most memorable of his young life. Surprised at school by Van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, Isaac was given a VIP tour of Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre, meeting his heroes before walking out hand in hand with Van Dijk at Anfield.
His enthusiasm lit up the tunnel, with even Feyenoord coach Arne Slot stopping to give him a high-five. Van Dijk’s bond with Isaac is a reminder of football’s ability to unite and uplift. The momentary annoyance over the coin toss was quickly forgotten. But, the joy shared with Isaac will undoubtedly remain in Van Dijk’s memory forever.
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