Everton ace Richarlison has been warned that he made Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk “mad” after his recent comments regarding his Merseyside rival. The Toffees forward claimed Van Dijk is not the best defender in the world and considers him to be inferior to Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos as well as Paris Saint-Germain duo Thiago Silva and Marquinhos.
The two stars are set to collide on Sunday in the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park and the Brazil international is confident ahead of this crucial encounter as he is one of the few players who have successfully dribbled past the 2019 Ballon d’Or runner-up.
Richarlison recently said: “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.
Thiago Silva, Marquinhos and Sergio Ramos are better defenders “
Former Liverpool full-back Jose Enrique caught wind of Richarlison’s controversial statement and took to Instagram to issue a response.
Enrique advised the Brazilian to “speak after the game” and warned him he may have angered Van Dijk ahead of the Merseyside derby.
The Spaniard posted: “Richarlison an advice for next time. Speak after the game mate now you got vvd mad. Let’s see what happens. Come on reds!!”
Van Dijk is considered as one of the best defenders in the world as he was instrumental in Liverpool’s Champions League triumph last year.
The Netherlands international was also among the Reds’ standout performers this season, which has led them to the top of the Premier League table with a whopping 22 points separating them from second-placed Manchester City.
The Merseysiders have been dominating the competition this term with 27 wins and only one loss in 29 Premier League matches.
Liverpool were hoping to seal the title at Goodison Park but City’s victory over Arsenal means they need another two wins to finally bring back the trophy to Anfield after 30 years.
Therefore, if Klopp’s men beat Everton in the weekend then a victory over Crystal Palace a few days later will guarantee them the title.