VIRGIL van Dijk’s contract crisis will continue for a few more days, but his 89th-minute goal in this nerve-racking triumph highlighted his value to Liverpool and propelled his team to the brink of the title.
They might win it as early as Sunday if they win at Leicester and Arsenal lose at Ipswich, but it’s only a matter of time before Arne Slot abandons prudence and begins talking about his club’s second trophy in five years.
It will also be a matter of time before Slot can address van Dijk, who followed Mo Salah’s lead this week by signing a fresh, two-year contract extension at Anfield.
Van Dijk, who scored the winner just three minutes after assisting Andy Robertson’s own goal that tied the game for West Ham, informed reporters after the game that contract news could be announced next week.
Read Also:Alan Shearer Drops Ruben Amorim Sack Verdict After Man Utd v Newcastle
Slot, on the other hand, was understandably unwilling to reveal his star’s contract negotiations. “I think when he says ‘let’s see what next week brings’ he means we’re playing Leicester City,” replied Slot. Reported By Sky Sports.
“Because right now, that is by far the most important thing this club is looking at. Two more wins, and I believe our first 32 games have demonstrated how difficult it is for every Premier League team to win a game of football.”
Only Alisson stood in their way until the 86th minute when Aaron Wan-Bissaka sent over a cross which van Dijk played against teammate Robertson and into his own net.
It was van Dijk’s error, although his teammate was “credited” with the own goal, but one that finally saw Liverpool burst into life after sleepwalking through most of the game.
COMMENTS