Alisson, Virgil would ‘swap awards for three points in a heartbeat’

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Jordan Henderson insists Alisson and Virgil van Dijk are genuine in the selflessness they displayed when picking up major individual honours.

Alisson was named UEFA Goalkeeper of the Season and Van Dijk Player of the Season at the Champions League draw last month.

Both players paid tribute to their team-mates upon collecting the awards.

Henderson understands that observers may dismiss this as artifical, but he assured fans that they have been just ‘as generous in private’, embodying an unparalleled team ethic.

“What was typical of both players – and typical of the attitude in our team – is that they were quick to say the prizes were as much down to the help of everyone at the club as anything else, not just themselves,” the skipper wrote in his matchday programme column.

“I’m sure when some people hear that sort of thing they roll their eyes and think ‘well you would say that in public’, but both of these lads epitomise our dressing room by not just saying it but meaning it.

“Both Ali and Virg have been as generous in private as they have been in public to make sure everyone who supports us on a day-to-day basis feels part of moments like these.

“It’s why, when Virgil’s name was announced on stage for the main award of the ceremony, there was a huge cheer that went up around Melwood from those who’d headed up to the canteen as soon as they’d come in [from training] to try and find out what was going on in Monaco.”

Henderson also expressed his total confidence that both would sacrifice the prizes without hesitation if it meant three points for the team.

“Later this month Ali, Virg and the gaffer, Jürgen, are up for FIFA awards and I hope they win them.

“But I know all three would swap them in a heartbeat for three league points.

“It’s great that we have a culture where we can appreciate the happiness of the individual knowing all the time that the group is what matters to them and us the most.”

There’s no denying that the recognition means a lot to the pair, but it really seems that the mentality Jurgen Klopp is instilled in his players is near-impeccable.

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