Virgil van Dijk delivered a captain's performance for Liverpool on Sunday, scoring a dramatic late winner to seal a 2-1 victory over West Ham—and sending a powerful message about his future at Anfield.

The Dutch defender, who was captaining the Reds for the 100th time, expressed his deep love for the club and pride in wearing the armband, subtly hinting at a contract extension that would keep him on Merseyside beyond the current season.

With his current deal set to expire this summer, speculation has swirled over Van Dijk's next move. But the centre-back's post-match comments offered Liverpool fans hope that he will follow Mohamed Salah in committing to the club's future.

"I am very proud to captain my 100th game for Liverpool," Van Dijk told Sky Sports. "That was the main focus, get three points and a step closer to all of our dreams. Not just us as players and staff but everyone connected to Liverpool FC. Everyone knows I love this club and let's see what next week will look like."

Van Dijk's performance was a microcosm of Liverpool's season—resilient, determined, and full of heart. After a miscommunication with Andy Robertson allowed West Ham to equalise late on, Van Dijk made instant amends, rising highest to head home Alexis Mac Allister's corner and restore Liverpool's lead.

The goal not only secured three vital points but opened up a commanding 13-point lead at the top of the Premier League table. With six games remaining, Liverpool need just six more points to mathematically secure the title—and could be crowned champions as early as next weekend.

Liverpool boss Arne Slot remained focused on the task at hand, brushing aside transfer talks to emphasize the importance of their upcoming clash.

"I think he means let's see what next week means when we play Leicester City because that is, at this moment, by far the most important thing this club is looking at," said Slot. "Everybody can say, 'You have to win two.' We still have to win two, so we should be completely focused on that—and if in the meantime a contract extension or whatever happens... but my full focus is on Leicester and, I'm sure, Virgil's as well."

Mohamed Salah, who recently signed a two-year extension himself, urged his long-time teammate to stay, saying, "I would love to see him again here next year."

As Liverpool close in on yet another Premier League title, Van Dijk's words—and actions—have only deepened the belief among fans that their captain isn't going anywhere. And with the silverware within reach, Anfield might soon have more than one reason to celebrate.