Jump to contentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleRichard JollyMonday 24 August 2026 12:34 BSTWhy Andoni Iraola Is PERFECT For LiverpoolLiverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has tipped Dominik Szoboszlai as his long-term successor for the armband after the Hungarian midfielder signed a new five-year contract and joined the club's leadership group.Szoboszlai secured a 2-2 draw for Liverpool against Newcastle United on Sunday by converting a high-pressure 99th-minute penalty, drawing praise from Van Dijk for his composure.With senior leaders Van Dijk, Alisson, and Joe Gomez entering the final season of their contracts, Szoboszlai's extended deal positions him to take on primary leadership responsibilities for the squad.Meanwhile, Van Dijk insisted that striker Alexander Isak was not affected by the vitriolic reception from Newcastle supporters during his first match back at St James' Park since his £125m transfer to Anfield.Addressing Liverpool's ongoing transition under head coach Andoni Iraola and pursuit of new signings like Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh, Van Dijk expressed full confidence in the board while acknowledging tactical adjustments take time.In fullVirgil van Dijk gives backing to Dominik Szoboszlai as future Liverpool captainMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in