Everton forward Richarlison does not believe Virgil Van Dijk is the best defender in the world despite the Dutch international being shortlisted to win last year's Ballon d'Or award.
Sitting 25 points clear at the summit of the Premier League, Liverpool could take another step towards securing their first domestic title since 1990 against their crosstown rivals on Sunday evening.
However, Brazil international Richarlison feels that the Reds' star centre-back Van Dijk, who is regarded by many to be the best player in his position, simply isn't the best defender in the world, and gave the names of the players he regards as better.
"People talk a lot about him (Virgil van Dijk); yes, he is a great defender but I've already dribbled past him," the 23-year-old said, as per the Daily Mail.
"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…
"Thiago Silva, Marquinhos and Sergio Ramos."
Everton will be hoping to delay their neighbours' relentless title pursuit as they aim to record a positive result at Goodison Park despite Jurgen Klopp's men coming out 5-2 winners in the last league Merseyside derby at Anfield.
