“It’s a good thing Mo is in the discussion as that means he is doing well and that means we are doing well.

“For him to stay in that discussion he should bring the same performances as he has done for seven or eight months now. In general, someone who wins the Ballon d’Or needs to win something as well.

“That is a great challenge in front of us and in front of him.

“What I liked a lot is that he takes this challenge with a big goal and assist against City but defensive work-rate in second half particularly was outstanding and that is what it takes for us to have the chance to win something.

“If we as a team win something he has a far better chance to win an individual prize like the Ballon d’Or.”