Real Madrid star Sergio Ramos has tipped fellow defender Virgil van Dijk for the Ballon d’Or after the Dutchman enjoyed a stunning 2018/19 campaign with Liverpool, winning the Champions League and the PFA Player of the Year.

Van Dijk was also rewarded for his stellar efforts with both UEFA Men’s Player of the Year and UEFA Best Defender of the Year accolades.

If the Liverpool centre-back adds the Ballon d’Or to his bustling collection of personal trophies, he will become the first defender to secure the award since Fabio Cannavaro in 2006.

“Van Dijk is a great centre back, he’s played a very, very good season and if he’s there it’s because he deserves it,” said Ramos.

“We always talk about the Ballon d’or for Cris and Messi. The fact that the chances are wider now for players other than forwards makes me happy.”