Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk won the UEFA Men's Player of the Year award on Thursday, edging out Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, while Lucy Bronze took the women's prize.

Dutchman Van Dijk starred as Liverpool won their sixth European Cup last season with a 2-0 Champions League final victory over Tottenham in Madrid.

"I need to thank my teammates, without them I would not have achieved what I have achieved," Van Dijk told BT Sport.

"It's been a long road and it's part of my journey. I'm very proud to get this trophy. It's credit to everyone who has helped me."

The 28-year-old is the first defender to win the award since the inaugural edition in 2010-11.

He moved to Liverpool from Southampton in January 2018 for a then-world record fee for a defender of £75 million ($91.4 million), immediately helping them reach that season's Champions League final where they lost to Real Madrid.

But Van Dijk was a key figure as Liverpool won their first major trophy since 2012 last term, while also setting a club-record points tally in finishing second by a point behind Manchester City in the Premier League.

"I wasn't 18 and went straight to the top. I had to work every step of the way," added Van Dijk, who was also part of the Netherlands side who lost the inaugural Nations League final to Ronaldo's Portugal.

Messi and Ronaldo had claimed five of the previous eight awards between them, with Andres Iniesta (2012), Franck Ribery (2013) and Luka Modric (2018) completing the winners' list.

"It's not easy but of course we have a good relationship," said Ronaldo of Messi.

"We have not yet had dinner but it is nice. We push each other and it's good to be part of the history of football."

Ronaldo's first season in Italy after joining Juventus from Real Madrid brought him a Serie A winners' medal, but the Turin giants suffered a shock Champions League quarter-final loss to Ajax.

"It was a special year," said the 34-year-old.

Full-back Bronze won the Women's Champions League title with Lyon before helping England reach the women's World Cup semi-finals.

"We had an amazing season, winning the treble," said Bronze of Lyon's exploits. "I think any of my teammates could have been up here receiving the award today."

The 27-year-old Bronze is the first English player to win either of the UEFA player of the year titles.

Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk won the UEFA Men's Player of the Year award on Thursday, edging out Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, while Lucy Bronze took the women's prize.

Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk won the UEFA Men's Player of the Year award on Thursday, edging out Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, while Lucy Bronze took the women's prize. Dutchman Van Dijk starred as Liverpool won their sixth European Cup last season with a 2-0 Champions League final victory over Tottenham in Madrid. "I need to thank my teammates, without them I would not have achieved what I have achieved," Van Dijk told BT Sport. "It's been a long road and it's part of my journey. I'm very proud to get this trophy. It's credit to everyone who has helped me." The 28-year-old is the first defender to win the award since the inaugural edition in 2010-11. He moved to Liverpool from Southampton in January 2018 for a then-world record fee for a defender of £75 million ($91.4 million), immediately helping them reach that season's Champions League final where they lost to Real Madrid. But Van Dijk was a key figure as Liverpool won their first major trophy since 2012 last term, while also setting a club-record points tally in finishing second by a point behind Manchester City in the Premier League. "I wasn't 18 and went straight to the top. I had to work every step of the way," added Van Dijk, who was also part of the Netherlands side who lost the inaugural Nations League final to Ronaldo's Portugal. Messi and Ronaldo had claimed five of the previous eight awards between them, with Andres Iniesta (2012), Franck Ribery (2013) and Luka Modric (2018) completing the winners' list. "It's not easy but of course we have a good relationship," said Ronaldo of Messi. "We have not yet had dinner but it is nice. We push each other and it's good to be part of the history of football." Ronaldo's first season in Italy after joining Juventus from Real Madrid brought him a Serie A winners' medal, but the Turin giants suffered a shock Champions League quarter-final loss to Ajax. "It was a special year," said the 34-year-old. Full-back Bronze won the Women's Champions League title with Lyon before helping England reach the women's World Cup semi-finals. "We had an amazing season, winning the treble," said Bronze of Lyon's exploits. "I think any of my teammates could have been up here receiving the award today." The 27-year-old Bronze is the first English player to win either of the UEFA player of the year titles.

Virgil van Dijk, Lucy Bronze take UEFA Player of the Year honours

Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk pipped Juventus' Cristiano Ronaldo and Barcelona's Lionel Messi to win UEFA Men's Player of the Year award on Thursday.&nbsp;

The Reds defender was a vital cog in Liverpool's first major trophy since 2012 last term after defeating Tottenham Hotspur in final.&nbsp;

During the UEFA awards ceremony, the defender was asked about Liverpool's stunning 4-0 win against Barcelona in the semi-final at Anfield.&nbsp;

The result sealed a 4-3 aggregate win&nbsp;and a spot in the UCL final.&nbsp;

However, van Dijk's reply — in front of Barcelona's Lionel Messi — was rather awkward.&nbsp;

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MUST LISTEN: Virgil bullying Messi about Anfield semifinal😂 
My CB❤️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Virgil?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Virgil</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/vanDijk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#vanDijk</a> <a href="https://t.co/7dSTDLcQCM">pic.twitter.com/7dSTDLcQCM</a>
— 6 TIMES (@kloppoynwa) <a href="https://twitter.com/kloppoynwa/status/1167135174926225408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Van Dijk said, "Anfield played a massive role. After the game in Spain we felt 3-0 wasn't the right result on the night but it was reality. We had to overcome it by doing the unthinkable.&nbsp;

"I think we had a crazy couple of days, we travelled back and played Newcastle and scored in the last few minutes to get the three points in a close title race. We travelled back from Newcastle and had one day to prepare for the Barcelona game.

"To actually do it, was unbelievable. The atmosphere was outstanding, it was something special and everything clicked on that night. We scored the goals at the right times, it was just a fantastic evening."

Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk pipped Juventus' Cristiano Ronaldo and Barcelona's Lionel Messi to win UEFA Men's Player of the Year award on Thursday. The Reds defender was a vital cog in Liverpool's first major trophy since 2012 last term after defeating Tottenham Hotspur in final.

Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk pipped Juventus' Cristiano Ronaldo and Barcelona's Lionel Messi to win UEFA Men's Player of the Year award on Thursday. The Reds defender was a vital cog in Liverpool's first major trophy since 2012 last term after defeating Tottenham Hotspur in final. During the UEFA awards ceremony, the defender was asked about Liverpool's stunning 4-0 win against Barcelona in the semi-final at Anfield. The result sealed a 4-3 aggregate win and a spot in the UCL final. However, van Dijk's reply — in front of Barcelona's Lionel Messi — was rather awkward. MUST LISTEN: Virgil bullying Messi about Anfield semifinal😂 My CB❤️ #LFC #Virgil #vanDijk pic.twitter.com/7dSTDLcQCM — 6 TIMES (@kloppoynwa) August 29, 2019 × Van Dijk said, "Anfield played a massive role. After the game in Spain we felt 3-0 wasn't the right result on the night but it was reality. We had to overcome it by doing the unthinkable. "I think we had a crazy couple of days, we travelled back and played Newcastle and scored in the last few minutes to get the three points in a close title race. We travelled back from Newcastle and had one day to prepare for the Barcelona game. "To actually do it, was unbelievable. The atmosphere was outstanding, it was something special and everything clicked on that night. We scored the goals at the right times, it was just a fantastic evening."

'Awkward': Virgil van Dijk talks about defeating Barcelona is semi-final last season in front of Lionel Messi

Liverpool goalkeeper Adrian's Premier League experience can help him seamlessly slot into their starting lineup if first choice Alisson is out for a long spell with a calf injury, defender Virgil van Dijk has said.

Brazil goalkeeper Alisson suffered the injury after slipping in the 36th minute of their 4-1 opening day victory over Norwich City and was replaced by Spaniard Adrian, who joined the club as a free agent four days earlier.

With Alisson ruled out of Wednesday's UEFA Super Cup clash with Chelsea and facing a longer layoff, Van Dijk believes that former West Ham shot-stopper Adrian has the quality to step up and perform for Jurgen Klopp's team.

"I think he's at that kind of age, that stage of his life and career that he can come in and slot in to the team pretty easy," Van Dijk told the British media.

Adrian, 32, made only five appearances in cup competitions for West Ham last season but has played 125 top-flight matches for the London club before joining Liverpool following the departure of Simon Mignolet.

"He's been through so many things in the Premier League... I'm sure he'll be fine if he does his normal thing," Dutchman Van Dijk added.

"He (Alisson) is very important for us, but I've no idea what the actual damage is. We'll see over the next days what the outcome is going to be.

"We have to deal with it and we're going to deal with it."

European champions Liverpool face Europa League winners Chelsea in Istanbul on Wednesday.

Liverpool goalkeeper Adrian's Premier League experience can help him seamlessly slot into their starting lineup if first choice Alisson is out for a long spell with a calf injury, defender Virgil van Dijk has said.

Liverpool goalkeeper Adrian's Premier League experience can help him seamlessly slot into their starting lineup if first choice Alisson is out for a long spell with a calf injury, defender Virgil van Dijk has said. Brazil goalkeeper Alisson suffered the injury after slipping in the 36th minute of their 4-1 opening day victory over Norwich City and was replaced by Spaniard Adrian, who joined the club as a free agent four days earlier. With Alisson ruled out of Wednesday's UEFA Super Cup clash with Chelsea and facing a longer layoff, Van Dijk believes that former West Ham shot-stopper Adrian has the quality to step up and perform for Jurgen Klopp's team. "I think he's at that kind of age, that stage of his life and career that he can come in and slot in to the team pretty easy," Van Dijk told the British media. Adrian, 32, made only five appearances in cup competitions for West Ham last season but has played 125 top-flight matches for the London club before joining Liverpool following the departure of Simon Mignolet. "He's been through so many things in the Premier League... I'm sure he'll be fine if he does his normal thing," Dutchman Van Dijk added. "He (Alisson) is very important for us, but I've no idea what the actual damage is. We'll see over the next days what the outcome is going to be. "We have to deal with it and we're going to deal with it." European champions Liverpool face Europa League winners Chelsea in Istanbul on Wednesday.

Liverpool's Van Dijk backs Adrian to cover for injured Alisson

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-pay-world-record-fee-for-a-defender-to-sign-harry-maguire-240869">Harry Maguire</a> will come under the microscope like never before after his 80 million pounds move to Manchester United made him the world's most expensive defender and Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk says he must focus on his game and tune out the noise if he is to handle the pressure.&nbsp;

Van Dijk preceded Maguire as the most expensive defender in world football when he joined Liverpool for 75 million pounds ($91.19 million) in 2018 before United eclipsed that mark for the former Leicester City centre back on Monday.&nbsp;

Dutch international Van Dijk told British media the price tag was not something Maguire had any influence over but there would be no escaping the attention it would bring.&nbsp;

"The price comes with pressure but it doesn't change too much because you always have&nbsp;pressure at big clubs like Man United," he said.

"It's not easy to completely shut off all the pressure."

Van Dijk has been a transformative presence for Liverpool since joining the Merseyside club from Southampton, helping them win the Champions League last season and take the Premier League title race down to the wire.

He said being able to keep things in perspective had helped him cope with the price tag and the odd wind-up from opponents.

"Quite a lot of things are more important than playing football," the 28-year-old added. "You need to enjoy it but the pressure will always be there.

"Just focus on doing what you love to do and play your best game. Get your qualities out on the pitch, enjoy your game and don't think about the other things.

"If opponents have a go during the game because you cost that much, what can you do? I'm not listening to them. It does not change anything in my head."

Liverpool kick off their league campaign at home to promoted Norwich City on Friday, while United host Chelsea on Sunday.

Harry Maguire will come under the microscope like never before after his 80 million pounds move to Manchester United made him the world's most expensive defender and Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk says he must focus on his game and tune out the noise if he is to handle the pressure.

Harry Maguire will come under the microscope like never before after his 80 million pounds move to Manchester United made him the world's most expensive defender and Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk says he must focus on his game and tune out the noise if he is to handle the pressure. Van Dijk preceded Maguire as the most expensive defender in world football when he joined Liverpool for 75 million pounds ($91.19 million) in 2018 before United eclipsed that mark for the former Leicester City centre back on Monday. Dutch international Van Dijk told British media the price tag was not something Maguire had any influence over but there would be no escaping the attention it would bring. "The price comes with pressure but it doesn't change too much because you always have pressure at big clubs like Man United," he said. "It's not easy to completely shut off all the pressure." Van Dijk has been a transformative presence for Liverpool since joining the Merseyside club from Southampton, helping them win the Champions League last season and take the Premier League title race down to the wire. He said being able to keep things in perspective had helped him cope with the price tag and the odd wind-up from opponents. "Quite a lot of things are more important than playing football," the 28-year-old added. "You need to enjoy it but the pressure will always be there. "Just focus on doing what you love to do and play your best game. Get your qualities out on the pitch, enjoy your game and don't think about the other things. "If opponents have a go during the game because you cost that much, what can you do? I'm not listening to them. It does not change anything in my head." Liverpool kick off their league campaign at home to promoted Norwich City on Friday, while United host Chelsea on Sunday.

Harry Maguire must live with the price tag pressure, says Van Dijk

Netherlands are all set to vie against Portugal for the Nations League final and former's Virgil van Dijk feels that it is not only Cristiano Ronaldo that they are going to face but 'great Portugal' side.

"We'll see. It's not only Cristiano Ronaldo we're going to face, we face a great Portugal. We will see what's going to happen," Goal.com quoted Van Dijk as saying.

Both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nations-league-netherlands-enters-final-as-england-self-destruct-225107">Netherlands </a>and Portugal registered a 3-1 victory in the semi-finals against England and Switzerland respectively to secure their spot in the final.

Van Dijk is enthused about the final and stated that they are going to give everything.

"I'm looking forward to playing this final with this team, and we`re going to give everything that we can to hopefully hold that trophy in the end and do everyone proud," he said.

Ronaldo scored a hat-trick in the semi-final against Switzerland and Van Dijk is considered as one of the best defenders.&nbsp;

Therefore, the fans will witness a compelling clash between the two.

Van Dijk also eulogised <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ronaldos-hat-trick-against-switzerland-sends-portugal-to-nations-league-final-224802">Portugal </a>teenager Joao Felix and said, "I watch football as well, I've seen the Europa League. Everyone has seen him. He's a big talent for them. He has a bright future in front of him if he stays humble and keeps working hard."

Netherlands will compete with Portugal in the Nations League final on June 10.

Netherlands are all set to vie against Portugal for the Nations League final and former's Virgil van Dijk feels that it is not only Cristiano Ronaldo that they are going to face but 'great Portugal' side.

Netherlands are all set to vie against Portugal for the Nations League final and former's Virgil van Dijk feels that it is not only Cristiano Ronaldo that they are going to face but 'great Portugal' side. "We'll see. It's not only Cristiano Ronaldo we're going to face, we face a great Portugal. We will see what's going to happen," Goal.com quoted Van Dijk as saying. Both Netherlands and Portugal registered a 3-1 victory in the semi-finals against England and Switzerland respectively to secure their spot in the final. Van Dijk is enthused about the final and stated that they are going to give everything. "I'm looking forward to playing this final with this team, and we`re going to give everything that we can to hopefully hold that trophy in the end and do everyone proud," he said. Ronaldo scored a hat-trick in the semi-final against Switzerland and Van Dijk is considered as one of the best defenders. Therefore, the fans will witness a compelling clash between the two. Van Dijk also eulogised Portugal teenager Joao Felix and said, "I watch football as well, I've seen the Europa League. Everyone has seen him. He's a big talent for them. He has a bright future in front of him if he stays humble and keeps working hard." Netherlands will compete with Portugal in the Nations League final on June 10.

Not just Ronaldo, we're going to face great Portugal, says Netherlands' Virgil van Dijk

Liverpool centre back Virgil van Dijk was named Player of the Year by England's Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) on Sunday, becoming the fourth player from the Netherlands to win the award.

The 27-year-old has transformed Liverpool's defence since joining from Southampton in January last year for a world record fee of 75 million pounds ($96.89 million) for a defender.

The Dutchman has helped the title-chasing Merseysiders keep 19 clean sheets in the Premier League and they have conceded the fewest goals in the top flight so far this season.

Liverpool are also in the Champions League semi-finals.

"I think it's the highest honour you can get as a player to get voted Player of the year by the players you play against every week. It's special. I'm very proud and honoured to win," Van Dijk told Sky Sports.

Arsenal's Dutch forward Vivianne Miedema, 22, claimed the women's Player of the Year award, having earlier on Sunday helped the London club secure their third Women's Super League title with her 22nd goal of the season.&nbsp;

Van Dijk topped a six-man shortlist, voted for by PFA members from the 92 Premier and Football League clubs, beating Manchester City's Raheem Sterling, Sergio Aguero and Bernardo Silva plus teammate Sadio Mane and Chelsea forward Eden Hazard.

The Dutch international is the second Liverpool player in a row to win the award after forward Mohamed Salah last year and joins compatriots Dennis Bergkamp, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Robin van Persie in claiming the honour.

Van Dijk is the first defender to win the award since Chelsea centre-back John Terry in 2005.

Manchester City's England forward Sterling won the men's young player award with the club's England forward Georgia Stanway taking the equivalent women's prize.

City's England Women's captain Steph Houghton was presented with the PFA Special Achievement award.

Liverpool centre back Virgil van Dijk was named Player of the Year by England's Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) on Sunday, becoming the fourth player from the Netherlands to win the award.

Liverpool centre back Virgil van Dijk was named Player of the Year by England's Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) on Sunday, becoming the fourth player from the Netherlands to win the award. The 27-year-old has transformed Liverpool's defence since joining from Southampton in January last year for a world record fee of 75 million pounds ($96.89 million) for a defender. The Dutchman has helped the title-chasing Merseysiders keep 19 clean sheets in the Premier League and they have conceded the fewest goals in the top flight so far this season. Liverpool are also in the Champions League semi-finals. "I think it's the highest honour you can get as a player to get voted Player of the year by the players you play against every week. It's special. I'm very proud and honoured to win," Van Dijk told Sky Sports. Arsenal's Dutch forward Vivianne Miedema, 22, claimed the women's Player of the Year award, having earlier on Sunday helped the London club secure their third Women's Super League title with her 22nd goal of the season. Van Dijk topped a six-man shortlist, voted for by PFA members from the 92 Premier and Football League clubs, beating Manchester City's Raheem Sterling, Sergio Aguero and Bernardo Silva plus teammate Sadio Mane and Chelsea forward Eden Hazard. The Dutch international is the second Liverpool player in a row to win the award after forward Mohamed Salah last year and joins compatriots Dennis Bergkamp, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Robin van Persie in claiming the honour. Van Dijk is the first defender to win the award since Chelsea centre-back John Terry in 2005. Manchester City's England forward Sterling won the men's young player award with the club's England forward Georgia Stanway taking the equivalent women's prize. City's England Women's captain Steph Houghton was presented with the PFA Special Achievement award.

Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk wins England's PFA Player of the Year award

Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp said he would be disappointed if defender Virgil van Dijk missed out on the Professional Footballers' Association's (PFA) Player of the Year award as he has had an "outstanding season".

Dutchman Van Dijk has transformed Liverpool's defence since joining the club from Southampton in Jan. 2018, and has been key in the Merseyside club keeping 18 clean sheets in the league this season.

The 27-year-old has missed just 35 minutes Premier League action all season as Liverpool edge closer to a first top division title in 29 years.

"Would I feel sad if Van Dijk doesn't win Player of the Year? For him yes, of course," he told reporters.

"He's had an outstanding season. Will he have deserved it? Of course. It was last season when (Manchester City's) Kevin De Bruyne and (Liverpool's) Mo Salah both played unbelievable seasons and Mo won it.

"We were happy about that and not because De Bruyne lost it, because he would have deserved it as well. I think it is the same again in this case."

Van Dijk is one of the six players in the running for the award alongside team mate Sadio Mane, Chelsea's Eden Hazard and Manchester City trio Raheem Sterling, Sergio Aguero and Bernardo Silva.

The winners voted for by the PFA members, will be announced on April 28.

Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp said he would be disappointed if defender Virgil van Dijk missed out on the Professional Footballers' Association's (PFA) Player of the Year award as he has had an "outstanding season".

Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp said he would be disappointed if defender Virgil van Dijk missed out on the Professional Footballers' Association's (PFA) Player of the Year award as he has had an "outstanding season". Dutchman Van Dijk has transformed Liverpool's defence since joining the club from Southampton in Jan. 2018, and has been key in the Merseyside club keeping 18 clean sheets in the league this season. The 27-year-old has missed just 35 minutes Premier League action all season as Liverpool edge closer to a first top division title in 29 years. "Would I feel sad if Van Dijk doesn't win Player of the Year? For him yes, of course," he told reporters. "He's had an outstanding season. Will he have deserved it? Of course. It was last season when (Manchester City's) Kevin De Bruyne and (Liverpool's) Mo Salah both played unbelievable seasons and Mo won it. "We were happy about that and not because De Bruyne lost it, because he would have deserved it as well. I think it is the same again in this case." Van Dijk is one of the six players in the running for the award alongside team mate Sadio Mane, Chelsea's Eden Hazard and Manchester City trio Raheem Sterling, Sergio Aguero and Bernardo Silva. The winners voted for by the PFA members, will be announced on April 28.

'Outstanding' Van Dijk deserves PFA award, says Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp&nbsp;said he would be disappointed if defender Virgil van Dijk missed out on the Professional Footballers' Association's (PFA) Player of the Year award as he has had an "outstanding season".

Dutchman Van Dijk has transformed Liverpool's defence since joining the club from Southampton in January 2018, and has been key in the Merseyside club keeping 18 clean sheets in the league this season.

The 27-year-old has missed just 35 minutes Premier League action all season as Liverpool edge closer to a first top division title in 29 years.

"Would I feel sad if Van Dijk doesn't win Player of the Year? For him yes, of course," he told reporters.

"He's had an outstanding season. Will he have deserved it? Of course. It was last season when (Manchester City's) Kevin De Bruyne and (Liverpool's) Mo Salah both played unbelievable seasons and Mo won it.

"We were happy about that and not because De Bruyne lost it, because he would have deserved it as well. I think it is the same again in this case."

Van Dijk is one of the six players in the running for the award alongside teammate Sadio Mane, Chelsea's Eden Hazard and Manchester City trio Raheem Sterling, Sergio Aguero and Bernardo Silva.

The winners, voted for by the PFA members, will be announced on April 28.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp said he would be disappointed if defender Virgil van Dijk missed out on the Professional Footballers' Association's (PFA) Player of the Year award as he has had an "outstanding season".

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp said he would be disappointed if defender Virgil van Dijk missed out on the Professional Footballers' Association's (PFA) Player of the Year award as he has had an "outstanding season". Dutchman Van Dijk has transformed Liverpool's defence since joining the club from Southampton in January 2018, and has been key in the Merseyside club keeping 18 clean sheets in the league this season. The 27-year-old has missed just 35 minutes Premier League action all season as Liverpool edge closer to a first top division title in 29 years. "Would I feel sad if Van Dijk doesn't win Player of the Year? For him yes, of course," he told reporters. "He's had an outstanding season. Will he have deserved it? Of course. It was last season when (Manchester City's) Kevin De Bruyne and (Liverpool's) Mo Salah both played unbelievable seasons and Mo won it. "We were happy about that and not because De Bruyne lost it, because he would have deserved it as well. I think it is the same again in this case." Van Dijk is one of the six players in the running for the award alongside teammate Sadio Mane, Chelsea's Eden Hazard and Manchester City trio Raheem Sterling, Sergio Aguero and Bernardo Silva. The winners, voted for by the PFA members, will be announced on April 28.

'Outstanding' Virgil Van Dijk deserves PFA award, says Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp

Liverpool will spend Christmas on top of the Premier League after goals from Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk earned them a 2-0 win at Wolves on Friday, opening up a four-point lead over second-placed Manchester City.

City can reduce the gap back to a point with a win over Crystal Palace at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, but Juergen Klopp's unbeaten side will now enjoy their Christmas dinner perched in first place.

Only two teams -- Chelsea in 2005-06 and City last season -- have had more points after 18 Premier League games in a season than Liverpool's 48 and the January 3 clash between Pep Guardiola's side and Klopp's men promises to be an epic.

It was by no means a vintage display from Liverpool in driving rain but this was a game which, coming after the high of Sunday's triumph over Manchester United, could have been a stumbling block for Klopp's side.

"It was clear that the whole game would be difficult. Everybody wants to press. We want to be compact but wide as well which makes it difficult. We defended it pretty well. The heavy rain was difficult for both teams tonight. It was a big fight. We knew that we needed to be ready," said Klopp.

"It was brilliant -- both goals. It was perfect football, especially on a night like tonight when it was difficult to play proper football," added the German.

On a foul night at Molineux, Wolves began brightly, the promoted side showing why they are in seventh place and Moroccan midfielder Romain Saiss forced Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker into an early save.

But Liverpool grabbed the lead in the 18th minute with a beautifully-worked goal. After a clever exchange with Sadio Mane, Brazilian midfielder Fabinho's pull-back was exquisitely turned in off the outside of his foot by Salah.

Adama Traore, Jonny and Matt Doherty all had chances saved by Alisson before the break, suggesting that Wolves, who had won their last three games, were still very much in the game but it was the visitors who extended their lead in the 68th minute.

Salah drifted a ball into the box towards Van Dijk and the towering Dutch defender calmly slotted past Rui Patricio from close range for his first Premier League goal.

Klopp had rotated his squad ahead of the festive fixtures with Georginio Wijnaldum starting on the bench and Jordan Henderson given the start in central midfield while Adam Lallana made an appearance in the second half as a substitute for the injured Naby Keita.

Klopp said Keita had suffered two separate cuts in his leg and foot from challenges but did not expect his injuries to keep him out of action.

The second goal killed off Wolves, whose inability to convert chances was highglighted again when substitute Morgan Gibbs-White shot into the side-netting near the end after a slip-up from Liverpool defender Andy Robertson.

Liverpool will spend Christmas on top of the Premier League after goals from Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk earned them a 2-0 win at Wolves on Friday, opening up a four-point lead over second-placed Manchester City.

Liverpool will spend Christmas on top of the Premier League after goals from Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk earned them a 2-0 win at Wolves on Friday, opening up a four-point lead over second-placed Manchester City. City can reduce the gap back to a point with a win over Crystal Palace at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, but Juergen Klopp's unbeaten side will now enjoy their Christmas dinner perched in first place. Only two teams -- Chelsea in 2005-06 and City last season -- have had more points after 18 Premier League games in a season than Liverpool's 48 and the January 3 clash between Pep Guardiola's side and Klopp's men promises to be an epic. It was by no means a vintage display from Liverpool in driving rain but this was a game which, coming after the high of Sunday's triumph over Manchester United, could have been a stumbling block for Klopp's side. "It was clear that the whole game would be difficult. Everybody wants to press. We want to be compact but wide as well which makes it difficult. We defended it pretty well. The heavy rain was difficult for both teams tonight. It was a big fight. We knew that we needed to be ready," said Klopp. "It was brilliant -- both goals. It was perfect football, especially on a night like tonight when it was difficult to play proper football," added the German. On a foul night at Molineux, Wolves began brightly, the promoted side showing why they are in seventh place and Moroccan midfielder Romain Saiss forced Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker into an early save. But Liverpool grabbed the lead in the 18th minute with a beautifully-worked goal. After a clever exchange with Sadio Mane, Brazilian midfielder Fabinho's pull-back was exquisitely turned in off the outside of his foot by Salah. Adama Traore, Jonny and Matt Doherty all had chances saved by Alisson before the break, suggesting that Wolves, who had won their last three games, were still very much in the game but it was the visitors who extended their lead in the 68th minute. Salah drifted a ball into the box towards Van Dijk and the towering Dutch defender calmly slotted past Rui Patricio from close range for his first Premier League goal. Klopp had rotated his squad ahead of the festive fixtures with Georginio Wijnaldum starting on the bench and Jordan Henderson given the start in central midfield while Adam Lallana made an appearance in the second half as a substitute for the injured Naby Keita. Klopp said Keita had suffered two separate cuts in his leg and foot from challenges but did not expect his injuries to keep him out of action. The second goal killed off Wolves, whose inability to convert chances was highglighted again when substitute Morgan Gibbs-White shot into the side-netting near the end after a slip-up from Liverpool defender Andy Robertson.

Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk strike as Liverpool defeat Wolves

Jurgen Klopp blamed his players for becoming embroiled in a fight at Swansea City as they lost their unbeaten 18-match run to the Premier League&#39;s bottom club.

It was Liverpool&#39;s first defeat since October, but the points were priceless for Swansea, who cut the gap between themselves and those above the relegation places to just three points.

He said, &quot;I am more frustrated about the performance than the result.

&quot;We were just not good enough, especially in the first half. We didn&rsquo;t play how we wanted to play.&quot;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/epl-liverpool-suffers-surprise-defeat-against-swansea-30417" target="_blank">EPL: Liverpool suffers surprise defeat against Swansea</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pictures-five-facts-on-alexis-sanchez-647">In pictures: Five facts on Alexis Sanchez</a>

&quot;We didn&#39;t keep the right positions we needed to, to cause them problems and didn&rsquo;t stretch them.

&quot;We gave them the opportunity to score and then we did exactly what Swansea wanted.

&quot;They didn&rsquo;t need to play, they needed to fight and we did exactly what they wanted and their confidence grew.&quot;

Klopp added: &quot;Swansea knew that to win today they needed our help and unfortunately we gave it to them.

&ldquo;They did the right things to deserve to win a game like this tonight and we didn&rsquo;t deserve it.

We could have equalised at the end, but didn&rsquo;t have that luck.&quot;

&nbsp;

Jurgen Klopp: "We were just not good enough, especially in the first half. We didn’t play how we wanted to play"

Jurgen Klopp blamed his players for becoming embroiled in a fight at Swansea City as they lost their unbeaten 18-match run to the Premier League's bottom club. It was Liverpool's first defeat since October, but the points were priceless for Swansea, who cut the gap between themselves and those above the relegation places to just three points. He said, "I am more frustrated about the performance than the result. "We were just not good enough, especially in the first half. We didn’t play how we wanted to play." EPL: Liverpool suffers surprise defeat against Swansea In pictures: Five facts on Alexis Sanchez "We didn't keep the right positions we needed to, to cause them problems and didn’t stretch them. "We gave them the opportunity to score and then we did exactly what Swansea wanted. "They didn’t need to play, they needed to fight and we did exactly what they wanted and their confidence grew." Klopp added: "Swansea knew that to win today they needed our help and unfortunately we gave it to them. “They did the right things to deserve to win a game like this tonight and we didn’t deserve it. We could have equalised at the end, but didn’t have that luck."

'Frustrated about performance,' says Jurgen Klopp

Liverpool&#39;s poor first-half display against Premier League bottom side Swansea City left manager Juergen Klopp angry and frustrated as they lost 1-0 at the Liberty Stadium on Monday.

Swansea went ahead five minutes before the break when an attempt to clear by Liverpool&#39;s 75 million pounds ($104.88 million) defender Virgil Van Dijk landed at the feet of Mawson who swept the ball home for his sixth league goal this season.

Van Dijk, playing in his first league game since signing from Southampton, had earlier flashed over a header from a first-half corner, while Mohamed Salah blazed the Dutch defender&#39;s lofted pass over the bar on the half-hour mark.

Liverpool upped the tempo in the second half, dominating possession and attacking from all angles, and Roberto Firmino saw his late header come back off the post, but Swansea managed to hold on for only their fifth league win of the season.

Liverpool had not lost in 18 games, having just ended the unbeaten league record of runaway leaders Manchester City, but they fluffed their lines in the face of some stout defending.

The loss leaves the Reds on 47 points, three behind Chelsea and six off Manchester United, with Tottenham Hotspur two points outside the top four after a draw at Southampton on Sunday.

Manchester City leads the way with 65 points from 24 games.

Klopp criticised his players for not sticking to their positions in the first half, allowing Swansea to score after a poor clearance by Virgil van Dijk

Liverpool's poor first-half display against Premier League bottom side Swansea City left manager Juergen Klopp angry and frustrated as they lost 1-0 at the Liberty Stadium on Monday. Swansea went ahead five minutes before the break when an attempt to clear by Liverpool's 75 million pounds ($104.88 million) defender Virgil Van Dijk landed at the feet of Mawson who swept the ball home for his sixth league goal this season. Van Dijk, playing in his first league game since signing from Southampton, had earlier flashed over a header from a first-half corner, while Mohamed Salah blazed the Dutch defender's lofted pass over the bar on the half-hour mark. Liverpool upped the tempo in the second half, dominating possession and attacking from all angles, and Roberto Firmino saw his late header come back off the post, but Swansea managed to hold on for only their fifth league win of the season. Liverpool had not lost in 18 games, having just ended the unbeaten league record of runaway leaders Manchester City, but they fluffed their lines in the face of some stout defending. The loss leaves the Reds on 47 points, three behind Chelsea and six off Manchester United, with Tottenham Hotspur two points outside the top four after a draw at Southampton on Sunday. Manchester City leads the way with 65 points from 24 games.

EPL: Liverpool suffers surprise defeat against Swansea

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