Holland legend Ruud Gullit believes compatriot Virgil van Dijk is the best defender in the world "by miles" as he highlighted the changes made by Arne Slot to elevate the Liverpool skipper among the greats.

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has ended any uncertainty about his future by signing a new two-year contract that commits him to Anfield until the summer of 2027. The 33-year-old Netherlands international’s previous terms were scheduled to expire once this season concludes and for many months it was unclear if an agreement would be found.

The Dutchman has been coy about his summer plans but captain Virgil van Dijk said, after signing his new two-year contract, he understood a “big summer” was planned. Slot, whose appointment was partly based on his reputation for improving players,