After joining Mohamed Salah in signing a new deal to stay at Anfield, the importance of captain Virgil van Dijk to Arne Slot's title-chasing Liverpool team has never been more apparent

When Virgil van Dijk is mentioned in the pantheon of great Premier League defenders, it occasionally comes with a caveat. Yes, he has the trophies, the class and the longevity that are the traditional hallmarks of all-time greats.

Virgil van Dijk has joined Mohamed Salah in signing a new contract with Liverpool. Van Dijk’s deal was due to expire at the end of the season but the Netherlands center back has penned a new, two-year contract.