Ronaldo and Messi lead Fifa shortlist

Fri Oct 30 2009 14:47:58

Reigning Fifa World Player of the Year Cristiano Ronaldo is in the running to retain his title after being named on a 23-man shortlist for this year's award.

The Real Madrid star heads a familiar cast of the world's leading talent as voting begins ahead of the annual gala in Zurich on December 21, which also includes Barcelona's Lionel Messi as a strong candidate.

Spain provide six nominees - goalkeeper Iker Casillas, defender Carles Puyol, midfielders Andres Iniesta and Xavi and strikers Fernando Torres and David Villa.

England, with four - Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, Wayne Rooney and John Terry - are next, while Brazil (three) and France (two) are the only other countries with more than one player nominated.

Brazilian Marta, who has won the women's award for the last three years, is once again included on a shortlist of ten names.

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