Reaction'I can't wait' - Virgil van Dijk reacts to Liverpool's Wembley return

A 1-1 draw with Fulham at Craven Cottage – where Luis Diaz’s early effort was later equalised by Issa Diop – completed a 3-2 aggregate victory for the Reds in their semi-final.

Jürgen Klopp’s men move forward to a showpiece showdown with Chelsea in a repeat of a clash they won on penalties in 2022.

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Speaking to Sky Sports post-match about the excitement to be returning to Wembley, captain Van Dijk said: “[It sounds] very good. It feels a little bit familiar!

“Obviously we wanted to make sure we did the right things. Fulham played at home, brought the flags out and brought a good atmosphere, I think their manager said it was the biggest game of the season so far.

“We had to be ready to fight and I think we started the game very well, scored a good goal and created many chances to double the lead or triple the lead.

“But in the end, we find a way and we go to Wembley and I can’t wait to see all our fans there again.”

Van Dijk was partnered by Jarell Quansah in central defence on the evening in London, with Conor Bradley continuing at right-back.

Asked about how the squad’s younger players have stepped up this season, Van Dijk added: “Very well. Obviously the right-hand side was not maybe the most experienced side today, but they did very well.

“The whole season already I’m proud of these guys. It’s only a beginning for them and they must feel it that way as well.

“But to be going to the final with this performance is a very good thing and only shows what kind of progress they have made. Hopefully they can keep going.”