Interview: The Reds’ captain, whose Anfield future is unclear, opens up ahead of Sunday’s Carabao Cup final with Newcastle

Liverpool may have led the way domestically and in Europe for much of this season but captain Virgil van Dijk knows in the final reckoning only trophies matter. This week’s Champions League last-16 exit to Paris St Germain on penalties – only a fifth defeat in 46 competitive games under Arne Slot – was a huge blow to a squad which has largely been leaving opponents trailing in their wake.

Liverpool boss Arne Slot has voiced his desire to tie down Reds captain Virgil van Dijk to a new contract with his deal up this summer.