VIDEO: 'VVD, my guy!' - NBA & LA Lakers legend LeBron James sends special motivational message to Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk

Van Dijk has received a lot of praise for his performances since being given the captain's armband at Anfield this season, with the Reds still in the fight to win a quadruple of trophies before coach Jurgen Klopp's imminent departure. Basketball icon James has congratulated the Dutch centre-back and backed his team for success.

"VVD, my guy," James said. "I hope you're well. I just want to say a huge congratulations on taking the armband this season. I know you will lead this club on amazing things. Strive for greatness. You'll never walk alone."

Van Dijk responded: "The king has spoken... Let's rock and roll."

Van Dijk has been a mainstay for Liverpool this season, starting 25 Premier League games since being appointed captain - more than any of his Reds team-mates. His predecessor, Jordan Henderson, admitted on Wednesday that the Anfield team have been given a "lift" since the Dutchman was appointed skipper after the English midfielder left to join Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia.

After leading Liverpool to Carabao Cup success recently, Van Dijk will hope to finish the season with more silverware as his team fight for the Premier League, FA Cup and Europa League trophies in the final months of the campaign.