Liverpool defender Van Dijk beats Messi, Ronaldo to UEFA Men's Player of the Year award

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has taken out the UEFA Men's Player of the Year award.

The Dutchman beat Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo after helping the Reds claim their sixth Champions League crown last season.

"I need to think my team-mates; without them I wouldn't have achieved what I've achieved over the past year," said Van Dijk.

"It's been a long road but it's been part of my journey.

"I had to work hard at every step along the way and I'm happy to have done that. I'm happy to receive this trophy - it's a credit to everyone I've worked alongside."