Virgil van Dijk seemed to have cost Liverpool two points when he got tangled up with Andy Robertson, leading to a soft equalizer for West Ham. However, just three minutes later, he was at the other end of the pitch, nudging Niclas Fullkrug and heading Alexis Mac Allister’s corner into the net to make amends.
Robertson, who had been visibly frustrated with his captain just moments earlier, was among the first to celebrate with Van Dijk by the corner flag, even planting a kiss on his forehead. On the sidelines, there was a triumphant fist pump from Arne Slot, who is eager to clinch the Premier League title as soon as possible and is now just two victories away.
Following Arsenal’s disappointing 1-1 draw with Brentford on Saturday, which saw them squander another two points, this was a much-needed calming influence at Anfield. Liverpool secured all three points with a 2-1 victory over West Ham, extending its lead over second-placed Arsenal to a whopping 13 points.
There really shouldn’t have been any nerves. Liverpool has been the presumptive champions for weeks, but Van Dijk’s actions in the closing stages of the West Ham match revealed that the tension was palpable.
Even before the own goal, he collided with Robertson while going for a header, causing the physio to rush onto the pitch to attend to the Reds’ left-back. Then, just minutes later, he failed to communicate with the Scot and his attempted clearance ricocheted off his team-mate’s shins and into the bottom corner following Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s hopeful cross.
Despite initial doubts about his leadership, Van Dijk’s actions on the pitch spoke volumes minutes later. He expertly positioned himself to meet Mac Allister’s out-swinging corner, subtly nudging Fullkrug aside to carve out just enough space for himself without attracting VAR scrutiny.
(Image: Getty Images)
In a gesture of commitment, Van Dijk kissed the badge in front of jubilant supporters, signalling his intent to emulate Mohamed Salah and remain at Anfield. The Dutch defender isn’t looking for an exit, and Jamie Carragher has a theory on why an official announcement hasn’t been made yet.
“Listen, I think there may be some news on Virgil van Dijk next week,” Carragher hinted on Sky Sports before the game. “I think the fact the Mo Salah news came out, maybe not trying to do two players on one day.”
“Maybe not trying to steal the thunder of either of the players, Virgil van Dijk or Mo Salah. I think Mo Salah had his moment a few days ago and I’m sure that will be the case with Virgil van Dijk next week.”
