After the League Cup win, Virgil van Dijk is especially proud of Liverpool’s talents. Manager Jürgen Klopp’s youthful team won on Sunday at the expense of Chelsea thanks to a headed goal by Van Dijk in extra time (0-1).
“All those young boys on the pitch in extra time, incredible. I am proud of everyone. All those boys played a role in what we achieved today,” said 32-year-old Van Dijk, Liverpool captain since this season. English media.
“It was an intense match for both teams. They had chances, so did we. It was great. It is my first trophy as captain of Liverpool. You always have to enjoy the good moments and this is certainly one of them.”
Liverpool’s average age at the end of the match was under 22. In addition to Van Dijk, goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher also played a starring role at ‘The Reds’. The 25-year-old Irishman was important at Wembley with several saves.
“He was world class today,” Van Dijk said of Kelleher. “Today he showed once more how good he can be as a goalkeeper. We need players like that at Liverpool.”
Kelleher, in turn, was full of praise for Van Dijk. “Virgil is a great leader. He is always fit and there at the important moments. He ensures that we always keep chasing more trophies. This is a fantastic prize for us. You dream of moments like this.”