Former leader of the Ukrainian national team Andrei Shevchenko believes that Manuel Neuer should win the Ballon d'Or award.
Last year, the best football player in the world prize was won by Cristiano Ronaldo. This year, the Portuguese is also considered the main favorite, but support for Bayern Munich's goalkeeper has been growing rapidly in recent times.
Shevchenko himself was awarded the Golden Ball in 2004 when he triumphed in the UEFA Champions League with AC Milan.
"Neuer is fantastic, because he is more than just a traditional goalkeeper," the forward told the FIFA website.
"However, I think that the favorites are still Cristiano and Messi. Ronaldo won the Champions League and was a star. All three have the potential to be winners, but I would choose Neuer because, in my opinion, he did exceptional work in the World Cup and throughout the season with Bayern. He was fantastic all year long."
Shevchenko also praised current Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti, who coached the Ukrainian in Milan. According to the striker, he is an excellent specialist and a friend to the players.
