VIDEO: 'They thought I was finished' - Match-winner Virgil van Dijk fires message to his critics after heading Liverpool to Carabao Cup glory over Chelsea

Van Dijk was crucial yet again as he marshalled the Liverpool defence throughout the 120 minutes to see off plenty of sustained Chelsea pressure. Partnered by Ibrahima Konate, the Dutchman led by example and scored the winner in the 118th minute. Winning his first trophy as Liverpool captain, Van Dijk is only looking onwards and upwards.

If anyone had been beginning to question whether Van Dijk was getting old or was 'finished', then the defender rightly silenced his critics. While he has not been at his imperious best at times this season, including a recent mistake against Arsenal, Van Dijk is still considered the benchmark for defenders. Few can argue against his place at the top of world football.

Having lifted his first piece of silverware as captain, Van Dijk will be desperate to add more trophies to his already extensive collection. He may not be finished just yet, as the Reds could win a further three in the Premier League, Europa League and FA Cup.