Virgil van Dijk sends Liverpool message and 'can't deny' Steven Gerrard claim after Sunderland winVirgil van Dijk's header helped secure Liverpool's 1-0 win over Sunderland as Steven Gerrard agreed the victory was huge in their pursuit of qualification for the Champions LeagueView 2 Images Virgil van Dijk has discussed Liverpool's win over Sunderland (Image: (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images))Steven Gerrard has backed Virgil van Dijk's assessment that Liverpool's 1-0 victory at Sunderland proved crucial in their battle for Champions League qualification, whilst emphasising significant improvements remain necessary. ‌Liverpool now trail Chelsea by just two points, with the Blues holding fifth spot - a position that appears sufficient for Champions League qualification. "They are chasing the Champions League places. "It didn't feel to me at all as a struggle because I think we played really, really, really well again," the manager said. That could give Liverpool the run they need to get a place in the Champions League for next season.

Source: Daily Mirror February 12, 2026 18:55 UTC