Van Dijk believes Carabao Cup victory will secure his legacy as one of Liverpool’s all-time great captains

Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool expressed that claiming a second League Cup title against Newcastle would solidify his stature among the club’s legendary captains who have accomplished remarkable feats.

The Dutch defender clinched the decisive goal in the 118th minute during the encounter with Chelsea at Wembley last year, marking his inaugural trophy as captain.

At 33 years old, he succeeded Jordan Henderson as captain in 2023 under Jurgen Klopp and has continued to lead the team under new manager Arne Slot.

“If I’m able to lift a second trophy, I believe I’d be well on my way to joining a distinguished list of captains who have made significant contributions to this club,” Van Dijk shared with British media ahead of the showdown against Newcastle.

“That’s certainly been a major aspiration of mine since I took on the captaincy. We’re not there yet, and there’s still plenty of hard work ahead.”

Although Van Dijk’s contract is set to expire in June, he indicated that he remains unfazed by the ongoing discussions regarding an extension.

“I feel like I’m in one of the best forms of my career, and that’s been evident,” he remarked.

“I truly enjoy playing, leading the team, being there for each and every player, and I relish the responsibility now more than ever—perhaps because I’m gradually getting older. So, we’ll just have to wait and see.”