Reaction'I'm so proud of the team' – Virgil van Dijk on Carabao Cup final win
Virgil van Dijk expressed his pride in the collective after Liverpool’s captain scored the winner deep into extra-time to defeat Chelsea 1-0 in Sunday’s Carabao Cup final at Wembley.
The skipper had earlier seen a headed goal disallowed following a VAR review but he was not to be denied, as he eventually crowned an immense individual display by deftly glancing home Kostas Tsimikas’ 118th-minute corner.
Van Dijk’s goal sparked wild scenes of celebration and secured a record 10th League Cup triumph for the club and, post-match, he was asked by Sky Sports to sum up what the victory meant to him.
“So much. All the young boys on the pitch, if you see the extra-time, it’s incredible. I’m so proud of the team,” the centre-back replied.
“An intense game for both sides, they had chances, we had chances and [it’s] amazing. First trophy as the Liverpool captain – it’s all for the fans so let’s enjoy it.
“You should always savour the good moments and this is definitely one of them. We will never take these things for granted, we are very, very blessed and you see today as well that it could have been the other way, we could have lost.
“But we didn’t, we did the job, even with all the problems that we had before the game and during the game – and yeah, I am so proud. I’m always proud to be part of this club but especially proud of the boys. They all played their part so it’s all credit to the team.”
Liverpool’s win provided Van Dijk with a chance to lift the first piece of silverware since he was appointed the club’s captain last summer.
And later speaking to Liverpoolfc.com, the No.4 revealed he requested specifically for Jürgen Klopp to join him for the trophy presentation.
“I wanted him to be next to me and I’m happy that he agreed,” said Van Dijk. “It’s a proud moment, a special moment and something I will cherish forever.”
On the foundations this achievement could give the squad as they continue in three more competitions this term, the Dutchman added: “Let’s hope a big platform.
“Obviously the turnaround is crazy now with playing again on Wednesday against Southampton [in the Emirates FA Cup]. We will have to do everything in our power to recover as quickly as possible, as good as possible, and hopefully get players back as soon as possible in the right way.
“We need everyone until the end of the season. But we are in everything so why not just go out and enjoy it? All of us, not only the players – staff, but especially the fans.
“It’s a beautiful time – and we have to not take these times for granted. We have to go for it and do it all together. That’s what I’m looking forward to.”