Everton forward Richarlison has taken a swipe at Virgil van Dijk ahead of the pair going up against each other Sunday, insisting the Liverpool man isn't among the top three defenders in the world.
Van Dijk helped the Reds to European Cup success and 97 Premier League points last season, finishing as runner-up to Barcelona star Lionel Messi in the 2019 Ballon d'Or as a result.
He subsequently started this campaign by picking up Uefa Super Cup and Club World Cup winner's medals, and has since been a key part of a dominant league performance that sees his team on track to break all points records as well as clinch the title.
But Richarlison, who will come up against the Dutchman when Liverpool travel to Goodison Park on Sunday, still does not believe he is one of the best in his position.
The Toffees forward told Desimpedidos: “People talk a lot about him, yes he is a great defender but I’ve already dribbled past him. He was chosen as one of the top three in the world as he had an excellent season.
“But yes, for me there are better defenders.”
When asked which players would make up his personal top three, the Brazilian replied: “Thiago Silva, Marquinhos and Sergio Ramos.”
