Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has revealed how Kenny Dalglish first welcomed him to the cub.

Van Dijk felt right at home at Liverpool when Dalglish welcomed him to the club by giving him his ­mobile phone ­number.

He said: “Kenny Dalglish gave me his mobile number in the very beginning and told me to ring him at any time.

“It is unbelievable when he sometimes sends me messages before games. That is what Liverpool is about.

“Like most clubs, Liverpool have some private boxes for players ­available. I have my own box for my family here. To get there, you have to walk through the boardroom.

“On match days, that is like walking in a museum. Almost every Liverpool legend is present. I just love to hear all the stories from the guys who used to play for this magical club.

“When you have meant something to this club, they will never forget you. You are Liverpool for ever."