Virgil wants Spurs target Robbo to stay at Anfield

VIRGIL VAN DIJK says he wants Andy Robertson to stay at Liverpool as talks remain ongoing with Tottenham Hotspur over a potential move before the end of the January transfer window.

- By PAUL GORST

VIRGIL VAN DIJK says he wants Andy Robertson to stay at Liverpool as talks remain ongoing with Tottenham Hotspur over a potential move before the end of the January transfer window.

Robertson had been in negotiations with Liverpool over a new contract before the surprise advance from Spurs earlier this week.

The two clubs are now locked in discussions, with no decision made as of yet.

The Reds recognise and respect their vice-captain's decorated service to the club across the past eight and a half years, and it is understood that, as Scotland captain, Robertson wants to play regular first-team football ahead of a first World Cup since 1998 for his nation later this year.

Club captain Van Dijk says he has spoken with his deputy about the situation and wants to see the long-serving left-back remain on Merseyside for the remainder of the campaign, at least.

"Of course I speak to him,"Van Dijk said. "I speak to him every day, he's my vice-captain. Robbo is a very important member of our team and I want him to stay but whatever happens, let's see.

"Do I expect him to be here on Wednesday [for the Qarabag game]? That's not on me, is it? Let's speak about [my best memories of him] when [a move] happens."