Virgil van Dijk decision questioned as Liverpool claim made - 'I don't get it'

Van Dijk

Ally McCoist has defended Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk and questioned whether the centre-back was overlooked in the Ballon d'Or rankings.

Paris Saint-Germain's Ousmane Dembele scooped the award ahead of Reds star Mohamed Salah, who missed on the top three as he finished fourth.

The Dutchman was voted as the 28th best player for his performances last year as Liverpool won the Premier Leagur at a canter, while they were knocked out of the Champions League in the Round of 16 by eventual winners, PSG.

Van Dijk was among the Liverpool contingent to make the trip to Paris for the star-studded event but Salah was among those not attending despite his formidable campaign.

Salah finished behind Dembele, Lamine Yamal and Vitinha while Van Dijk charted inside the top 30 behind the likes of Harry Kane, Scott McTominay, Alexis Mac Allister and Denzel Dumfries.

McCoist was left confused by the low ranking for Van Dijk and questioned whether defenders are under appreciated compared to forwards, as he highlighted the stopper's impact in Liverpool's domestic triumph.

McCoist

“Well, no, first of all you’re right to mention it and I don’t get it either,"

"One of the main reasons, I believe, it’s easier to destroy than it is to create.

“That said, I honestly believe they do get an honourable mention in this award. I think Cannavaro might be the only one I can remember winning it.

"What I will say, Maldini, Baresi, Jurgen Kohler, just brilliant, brilliant defenders and we all acknowledge their brilliance, but we naturally look to the other end.

"What I’m saying is, Virgil van Dijk won’t get the plaudits for his work which is just as important to Liverpool as Mohamed Salah does for his work - which is equally important.

"With the greatest respect, we naturally enjoy seeing a brilliant pass, goal, or creativity than a tackle."

Alisson Becker also missed on the Yachin Trophy award as Manchester City shot-stopper Gianluigi Donnarumma scooped the award after his success with PSG last season.

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