Slot says Liverpool star ‘deserves every compliment he gets’ | OneFootball

Arne Slot has heaped praise on Virgil van Dijk and insists the Liverpool captain deserves every compliment he gets.

Van Dijk scored as Liverpool beat Tottenham Hotspur 4-0 on Thursday night to reach the Carabao Cup final. It continued another impressive campaign from the Dutch defender, who has been an integral part of Liverpool’s success this season.

In addition to reaching the Carabao Cup decider, the 33-year-old has captained Liverpool to the to top of the Premier League table and Champions League’s last 16. However, his future remains unclear with Van Dijk’s contract set to expire in the summer.

Ahead of facing Plymouth in the FA Cup’s fourth round this weekend, Slot was asked on the impact of Van Dijk in his debut campaign in charge. He said his compatriot has been ‘outstanding’ and is keen to turn a good season into a ‘great season’.

“Virgil deserves every compliment he gets,” Slot said.

“He’s been outstanding for the club since he’s been here and outstanding for me since I’ve been at the club.

“He showed that again yesterday. Virgil, like many others, has had a good season, but he will want to make it a great season.”

Slot also confirmed that Trent Alexander-Arnold will miss this weekend’s game. The right-back will be assessed ahead of the midweek Merseyside Derby at Everton.

“No, I don’t think he is ready yet. This game [against Plymouth] is going to be too early for him.

“It is difficult to say if he will be back [for the Merseyside derby]. It’s not going to take months or even weeks, but that game is only three days after the Plymouth Argyle one. Let’s wait and see if he is available.

“We also want to look at it long-term because we don’t want to take any risks with so many games coming up afterwards. If he is fit, then we will use him.”

Read – Slot not ruling out quadruple with Liverpool in a ‘good place’

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