Cristiano Ronaldo has claimed the first of what is likely to be a few awards this season, after being named FifPro World Footballer of the Year.
Rio Ferdinand was also named among the best eleven players in the World last season, which will be well received by our defender who was overlooked in the Balon d’Or shortlist.
FifPro is the worldwide representative organisation for professional football players, with more than 57,500 members taking part in the voting process.
“To be recognised by my fellow players is amazing,” said Ronaldo. “I would like to thank my team-mates and coaches and everyone involved at United and the national team, as well as my family and friends for their support.”
Ronaldo was included in the strongest XI last season, although lost out on the overall award to Kaka. Here is the team in full:
Goalkeeper: Iker Casillas (Spain/Real Madrid)
Defenders: Sergio Ramos (Spain/Real Madrid); John Terry (England/Chelsea); Carles Puyol (Spain/ Barcelona); Rio Ferdinand (England/Manchester United)
Midfielders: Steven Gerrard (England/Liverpool); Xavi (Spain/Barcelona); Kaka (Brazil/AC Milan).
Forwards: Lionel Messi (Argentina/Barcelona); Fernando Torres (Spain/Liverpool); Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal/Manchester United)
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