Troy Deeney says he hates playing against Virgil van Dijk because he ‘smells lovely'

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TROY DEENEY admits he hates playing against Virgil van Dijk because the defender “smells lovely.”

Watford’s leading man is regarded as one of the toughest centre-forwards in the Premier League thanks to his big physique and bruising reputation.

But there is one ace even Deeney fears coming up against – Liverpool defender Van Dijk.

The Dutchman is one of the few players around who towers over Deeney.

But that’s not the reason Watford’s captain dislikes going toe-to-toe with Van Dijk – it’s his pleasant scent.

Deeney told BBC 5Live Sport: “I’ve said it many times – I hate him. I hate going up against him.

“He’s too big, too strong, too quick, too good on the ball, he loves fighting and he’s got a good head of hair.

“He’s one of those guys who sprays on his top as well so he smells lovely. When he runs past you, it’s like, ‘I can catch you, but…’.”

Deeney also reserved praise for Van Dijk’s new defensive partner Joe Gomez, adding: “He’s very good. I’ve said for a long time I’ve got massive respect for him, he could be England’s centre-half for the next 15 years.

“He’s a beast of a player and going next to someone like Van Dijk you’re only going to get better.”