Virgil van Dijk sends message after Liverpool drama v Arsenal
Liverpool have been revelling in their Premier League triumph, having clinched the title against Tottenham Hotspur in late April.
Since their wild celebrations at Anfield, Arne Slot’s men have understandably eased up in recent weeks, losing to Chelsea and drawing with Arsenal.
After their gripping 2-2 draw with the Gunners, captain Virgil van Dijk took to social media to share a message with supporters.
Van Dijk pleases supporters with Liverpool message
Liverpool’s latest meeting with Arsenal was full of drama as the Reds surrendered a 2-0 advantage to draw with Mikel Arteta’s side.
Goals from Cody Gakpo and Luis Diaz put the Merseyside outfit ahead at the break, but Gabriel Martinelli and Mikel Merino cancelled them out.
Merino was then given his marching orders for a second bookable offence, meaning Arsenal finished the game with ten men.
| Match statistics | Liverpool | Arsenal |
| Total shots | 14 | 15 |
| Shots off target | 8 | 4 |
| Shots saved | 4 | 3 |
| Corners | 3 | 1 |
| Free kicks | 10 | 13 |
| Offsides | 3 | 1 |
There was significant controversy off the pitch too, as some Liverpool supporters booed Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is to depart at the end of the season.
The encounter had the neutrals encapsulated, with all the ingredients of a classic Premier League encounter.
Following the game, van Dijk shared a photograph of Liverpool receiving a guard of honour from the Gunners, accompanied by a heart emoji.
Liverpool must bolster defence to retain title
With Alexander-Arnold’s departure from Merseyside confirmed, the Reds must strengthen at right-back to provide competition for Conor Bradley.
Jeremie Frimpong has emerged as the most likely acquisition, and with a £30million release clause, a move for him seems like a no-brainer.
At left-back, Andy Robertson has been a soldier for some time, but there have been signs of deterioration of late.
Milos Kerkez would be a shrewd signing for Liverpool and would be a compelling long-term solution to the Scot.
As for outgoings, Aston Villa-linked Joe Gomez could leave the Anfield club this summer as opportunities have dried up this season.
Defending titles can be one of the toughest tasks in football, but Liverpool will be hellbent on scratching their names into the Premier League trophy again next season.