Richarlison: Van Dijk not world's best defender

Everton forward Richarlison has added some fuel to the fire ahead of Sunday's Merseyside derby, suggesting Liverpool stalwart Virgil van Dijk isn't the all-conquering presence he's widely hailed to be.

The Brazilian, 23, is confident he can get the better of the Dutchman when the Reds visit Goodison Park.

"People talk a lot about him; yes he is a great defender, but I've already dribbled past him," he told Desimpedidos, as translated by ESPN. "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."

Asked to provide examples, Richarlison cited compatriots Thiago Silva and Marquinhos, and Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos.

Van Dijk, who's been instrumental in helping push Liverpool to the brink of a first English title in 30 years, has enjoyed a trophy-laden spell at Anfield since joining the club in 2018.

He narrowly missed out on last year's Ballon d'Or, too, finishing a close second to Lionel Messi in the voting.

The towering defender and his teammates return to action on Sunday knowing that a win will bring them to within three points of clinching the Premier League crown.