Ballon d'Or 2020: Ranking the top 5 favourites - March 2020

#3 Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool/Netherlands)

Liverpool FC v Brighton & Hove Albion - Premier League

Virgil van Dijk's inclusion in the list should come as no surprise, as the Liverpool defender has been on the top of his game since making the move to the Merseyside from Southampton for a world record fee in 2018. The Netherlands captain, widely regarded as the best defender in world football, has spearheaded Liverpool's title charge, as the Reds look set to win their first league title in 30 years.

Having placed second in the Ballon d'Or in 2019 behind Lionel Messi, van Dijk is sure to be in the mix this season, as he plays more often than not when fit. The reigning winner of the PFA Player of the Year award is also well set to retain his award, with the likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah and Jamie Vardy also in the mix for the coveted prize.

Aside from his exploits defensively, van Dijk has also been crucial on the other end of the pitch, as he contributed four goals and an assist in all competitions for the Reds. The 28-year-old is also set to captain the Netherlands in Euro 2020, as Ronald Koeman's side are set to contest in their first major tournament since the 2014 edition of the FIFA World Cup.