NewsVirgil van Dijk: Why Liverpool is the best place for me to be

The Dutchman's decision to put pen to paper on a new contract sees him extend his legendary Anfield career, which began at the start of 2018.

Van Dijk's time on Merseyside thus far includes seven major honours, a triple-century of appearances, taking on the captaincy, and becoming one of the best defenders in the world.

But it is the relationship he has established with the club's supporters and the city that brings him particular pride.

Speaking exclusively to Liverpoolfc.com, Van Dijk said: "It always felt right. I said it from the first day on that it felt right and I think it showed in the years we have spent together up until now. And obviously more years to come.

"It is the place for me to be, to spend my best years, be successful with the club as we have been over the years and hopefully the future as well.

"And I love the city, I love the club, I love the fans. I love my teammates. I love everything that embodies Liverpool, and on to many more."

• Want to watch the full interview with Van Dijk? Subscribe to LFCTV GO now and get your first month free.

The No.4 continued: "It is an emotional day, not only for myself but for my family as well. My kids are also almost like Scousers, they don't know anything else than Liverpool, especially my two youngest.

"You live your life away from obviously where I'm from in Holland and you are living a very good life, a blessed life, but we live also that good life because of the people of Liverpool, the club, the fans. So it's a togetherness that I really, really appreciate.

"It helps me and also is what embodies me as well, that I really love how the club is in general, what it stands for and these principles and values are really important to me and my family as well."