Cristiano Ronaldo’s stunning season for Manchester United in 2007 / 08 has seen him named as the FifPro World Footballer of the year.
Ronaldo’s 42 goal heroics gave him the edge over 54 other players who were on the shortlist.
As well as Ronaldo’s individual award, Manchester United were also represented in the FifPro team of the year with the Portuguese international joined by team mate Rio Ferdinand.
Speaking after receiving the honour, Ronaldo said:
To be recognised by my fellow players is amazing.
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.
Liverpool’s Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres and Chelsea and England captain John Terry also made the team, along with AC Milan midfielder Kaka and Barcelona star Lionel Messi.
FifPro World XI:
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)
