Franck Ribery has once more talked up his chances of winning the FIFA Ballon d’Or, musing that he is as affective as Cristiano Ronaldo.
With voting extended on the annual award to recognise the best player in the world, the Frenchman and the Real Madrid forward have emerged alongside Lionel Messi as almost certainties to make three-man shortlist.
For the Bayern Munich winger, comparisons with Ronaldo when debating the Ballon d’Or should not be made just on goals.
“Cristiano scores goals, but I do too. It is true that he has gotten more, but we do not have the same profile as players,” Ribery has told Le Monde this week.
“I do not score as many as him, but I make it hell for defences.
“His performances for Portugal against Sweden in the World Cup qualifying play-offs? I caused the expulsion of three players in two game and was involved in two of France’s three goals.
“I know that these are details that are not looked at as much, but I am not afraid. I have confidence.
“I’ve done everything that I should do. Now all I must do is wait for the outcome.
“What was important for me was to continue on the same line and, to win the Ballon d’Or, I had to qualify for the World Cup with France.
“Until now I have not gone wrong. I have been a constant throughout the year for my national team and my club. What we did last year with Bayern is historic.”
