Slot hopes to work with Van Dijk for longer
Arne Slot says he wants to work with Virgil van Dijk "for a long time" as the Liverpool captain's future past this season remains up in the air.
Van Dijk is one of three Liverpool stars out of contract at the end of the season, along with Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold, and is now able to talk to clubs overseas about pre-contract agreements to join on a free transfer in the next window.
However, the Dutchman is expected to commit his future to Liverpool and continue his stay for a ninth season.
Van Dijk was one of the goalscorers on Friday (AEDT) as the Reds overturned a Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg deficit by beating Tottenham Hotspur 4-0 at Anfield to book its place in a first final under Slot, which will be against Newcastle United.
Since making his Liverpool debut in January 2018, Van Dijk has more goals in all competitions than any other Premier League defender (26).
Van Dijk has also contributed to 10 clean sheets in 23 Premier League games so far this season, and Slot hailed the 33-year-old's impact on the team.
"Virgil deserves every compliment he gets," Slot said.
"He's been outstanding for this club for so many years and, since I've been here, he's been outstanding for me as well.
"[The win over Spurs] was an example of that. He was, in a good way, aggressive, led the team with and without the ball, he was sharp and ready.
"It was no coincidence it took 80 mins for Tottenham's first shot [of note]. Virgil, just like many others, has had a good season, but he wants to make it a great season.
"[I hope his future holds] Good health is the first thing I wish him, and I hope to continue working with him for a long time, although I don't think that will surprise you."
Liverpool is still fighting on four fronts this season, and has the chance to take a step closer to another final in the FA Cup fourth round this weekend.
It faces Plymouth Argyle on Monday (AEDT), although the match will prove too soon for Alexander-Arnold, who missed the clash with Spurs with an injury.
"[Plymouth] is going to be too early for him," Slot said.
"Difficult to say for Everton. It won't take months or even weeks, but it is only three days after Plymouth, so let's wait and see if he's available.
"We also look long term, and we don't want to take any risks, but if he is fit, then of course, we will use him."
