Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk shows class with Trent Alexander-Arnold act (2025)

Trent Alexander-Arnold offered an emotional response to scoring the match-winning goal for Liverpool vs Leicester and was given an impressive reception by supporters following the game

Virgil van Dijk encouraged team-mate Trent Alexander-Arnold to take in the adulation from Liverpool's travelling support, after victory over Leicester City. The full-back scored the only goal of the game on his return from injury as the Foxes saw their relegation confirmed.

Van Dijk first had his own moment with fans as Liverpool moved a step closer to winning the Premier League title. The Dutchman received a vociferous reception as he punched the air and applauded supporters at the King Power Stadium, after extending his contract at Anfield earlier in the week.

Alexander-Arnold's match-winning strike, a rare left-footed effort, sees the Reds move just one win away from being named champions. Making his first appearance since March, the club's vice-captain came off the bench to make the difference and Van Dijk was keen for his team-mate to connect with the fans.

"[Virgil] pushed me to the front to soak it in to get close and personal - the away fans are amazing," Alexander-Arnold revealed following the match. "They've pushed us every game.

"They helped us win the game. As much as we do it for ourselves and our families we do it for the fans.

"They're the ones that spend the money and travel to games, it's the least they deserve. To be so close to winning a league title - a first one in front of fans which what were missing - is very special."

The moment takes on greater significance, with Alexander-Arnold widely expected to leave the club this summer. The defender came into this season as one of three players set to see their contract exire, but Van Dijk and Mo Salah have now both committed their futures to Liverpool for a further year.

A move to Real Madrid seems to await the 26-year-old, who refused to be drawn on his plans for next season. "I have said all season that I am not going to speak on my situation.

"I am not going to go into the details. But days like today are always special. Scoring goals, playing games, winning games, winning titles - they are special moments for me and I am glad to do my part."

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher reckons Alexander-Arnold has been put in a difficult position, but expects him to depart.

"Whether a decision has already been made, I think most people think it has," said Carragher. "It’s difficult for him to give an honest answer.

"The frustration with Liverpool fans is that throughout the process with Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah it was always under the remit they wanted to stay. That tells you everything with Trent, who is a local boy. Most of us probably know what’s going to happen.”

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