Virgil van Dijk called a journalist's question to Arne Slot about Xabi Alonso taking the Liverpool job "disrespectful." The query came before Liverpool's 3-0 Champions League win at Marseille. Slot laughed off the rumour, but Van Dijk defended his manager after the match, noting criticism is justified but timing was poor.

Liverpool delivered a complete performance in France, with Van Dijk celebrating his 350th club appearance. The victory strengthens their push for a top-eight finish, securing direct entry to the last-16 and avoiding a February play-off. They host Qarabag next, needing a win to lock in a home tie for the knockout stages.

Attention now shifts to Saturday's Premier League trip to Bournemouth. Liverpool are unbeaten in 13 games since November but have drawn four straight league matches, sitting fourth and 14 points behind leaders Arsenal. The race for Champions League qualification is tight, with several teams close behind.