Liverpool defender Virgil Van Dijk has finished second behind Lionel Messi in the 2019 Ballon d’Or.
The ceremony in Paris concluded on Monday night, with the Barcelona forward taking home his sixth of the illustrious title.
The Dutch international played a vital part in Liverpool’s Champions League success and captained his national side to the Nations League final.
He has continued his form this season so far, with three goals already in fourteen games in the Premier League, including a double on Saturday against Brighton in a 2-1 win.
The second-placed finish ensured Van Dijk becomes just the third Liverpool player to finish 1st or 2nd in the Ballon d’Or.
Kenny Dalglish and Michael Owen are the only two who have previously placed so highly.
As for the rest of the Liverpool team, seven finished in the top thirty.
Sadio Mane took fourth with fellow attacker Mo Salah taking fifth.
Alisson Becker took seventh and similarly took home the Yachine Trophy goalkeeper award.
Roberto Firmino (11th), Trent Alexander-Arnold (19) and Georginio Wijnaldum (26) were the rest of those nominated.
The team must now put all focus into the Merseyside derby on Wednesday.
Picture by Ailura under Creative Commons License
