Liverpool's Egyptian striker #11 Mohamed Salah celebrates scoring the team's first goal with Liverpool's Dutch defender #04 Virgil van Dijk during the English Premier League football match between Liverpool and Chelsea at Anfield in Liverpool, north west England. AFP
Salah, 33, scored a goal and provided an assist during the match, amid ongoing speculation regarding his long-term future at Anfield.
Despite his contract running until 2027, the Saudi Pro League's interest in Salah persists.
Since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations in January, Salah has rediscovered his form, starting every match and contributing two goals and four assists.
His resurgence follows a challenging period earlier in the season when he publicly voiced frustration with his situation at the club.
Van Dijk emphasized that Salah's value goes beyond his goal-scoring ability.
The forward’s assist against Sunderland last week moved him level with Steven Gerrard on 92 Premier League assists for Liverpool, setting a new club record.
“Mo is still a leader, and it’s important for me as captain to have him around," Van Dijk said.
"His presence on the pitch benefits the team. He always offers more than just goals.
There’s a lot of focus on his scoring because he sets such high standards.
When he doesn’t score as often, he faces criticism.”
The defender, who recently signed a new two-year contract, acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Salah’s future.
“Mo is in the same situation as me – he’s got one more year left, so we’ll see,” Van Dijk added.
“I always want Mo to stay because he’s a close friend, and we’ve been through many highs and lows together over the years.
“Mo is an extremely important player for Liverpool, and he has set the bar very high. Let’s see how crucial he continues to be as the season progresses.”
Liverpool currently sit sixth in the Premier League table, with 12 wins from 26 matches, as they look to build greater consistency in the final stretch of the campaign.
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