Jurgen Klopp joked that Virgil van Dijk's inclusion in the FIFPRO Men's World XI was not down to his last four or five Liverpool outings.
The Reds have shipped an abnormal amount of goals this season, with Van Dijk in the line-up for the 5-2 drubbing at the hands of Real Madrid in the first-leg of their Champions League round-of-16 tie. Despite this, the Dutchman was given the nod as one of the world's best centre-backs as a result of his stellar 2022.
Discussing Van Dijk's inclusion during his pre-match presser ahead of Liverpool's home clash with Wolves on Wednesday night, Klopp explained how his star defender was worthy of his place in the world eleven.
The Liverpool boss explained with a smirk: "I don't think he got in this team because of his last four or five performances, it was because of [the] last year and I think that's fully and absolutely deserved.
"He obviously likes it a lot, I could see some reaction, so that's cool. He was there [at the awards]. [He] asked me if he can go there, yes of course, it's no problem... it's great. Once I was there, it's a nice event. So it's worth going."
Speaking after claiming his title, Dutch defender Van Dijk said: "First and foremost proud, grateful, blessed, I can say a couple of things but those are the feelings that I have.
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"It was an interesting year, we played all of the games and were competing for all trophies until the last game of the season. Very close, unfortunately couldn't get it done but very proud to be apart of this football club.
"I'm grateful and this is the biggest recognition you can get, voted for by your peers, by the players you play with and know what you go with day in, day out and play the same level. Proud."
Though Van Dijk hasn't been operating at his usual high standards this season, he remains Liverpool's most important defender.
In games without the Netherlands international, the Reds have looked well below their best. Earlier this month, Liverpool were swept aside by Wolves who ran out 3-0 winners at the Molineux. That clash saw Joe Gomez and Joel Matip line up in the middle of the defence and Van Dijk's absence was sorely felt.
Since Van Dijk's return for the Merseyside derby victory earlier this month, Liverpool are yet to concede a goal in the league with their number four in the side.
