Virgil van Dijk v Chelsea, 2024
It was only natural that the final trophy of Jürgen Klopp’s glorious reign was won amid drama and tumult.
Injuries had bitten to the point that, during extra-time of the 2024 final, four inexperienced youngsters from the Academy – Jarell Quansah, James McConnell, Jayden Danns and Bobby Clark – were battling it out with Chelsea’s senior stars.
They were aided by the raucous backing of Liverpool’s supporters, who recognised they had a part to play if a record-extending 10th League Cup was to be secured.
And then, in the 118th minute, the captain stepped forward.
Virgil van Dijk crowned an immense, Player of the Match-winning performance with a fine header from Kostas Tsimikas’ corner and, against all odds, the Reds had done it again.
“It is easily the most special trophy I’ve ever won,” Klopp, beaming with pride, said afterwards.