Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk hopes to be part of the “big transition” that will take place when manager Jurgen Klopp leaves Anfield at the end of the season.
Dutch defender Van Dijk still has a year left on his contract and there could be plenty of turbulence after Klopp’s nine years in charge of the English giants.
Liverpool have reportedly reached an agreement with Feyenoord manager Arne Slot and Klopp is happy to be involved in a new era under his compatriot.
“The focus now is on the last two games and then the club will focus on who the new manager is and there will be a big transition and I am part of that,” said Van Dijk after Sunday’s 4-2 home win over Tottenham . .
“I have nothing to discuss because there is no news, I think the club is very busy with who will be the new coach and that is the main focus.
“Like I said, I’m very happy here, I love the club and you can see that too. It’s already a big part of my life and that’s all I can say.”
Klopp was denied a fairytale farewell, with Liverpool’s bid for a second Premier League title under his leadership fading in a season in which the Merseysiders won the League Cup.
Liverpool are currently third in the table, five points behind leaders Arsenal.
“He’s quite a coach, very impressive in my opinion, he’s the complete package,” said Van Dijk. “He is a fantastic coach, a great human being and we have a great relationship.
“I am very proud to have played for him, fought for the badge and for him and I also count the success we have had over the years.
“It will be emotional on the last day, but sometimes it’s part of life. A lot of things are happening behind the scenes, but we focus on game days and that’s our duty, our job and we want to play for the last six points. “
jdg/ea
