Champions League - Platini tips Messi for sweep

Eurosport - Wed, 21 Oct 19:47:00 2009

Barcelona forward Lionel Messi is set to sweep this year's player awards, UEFA president Michel Platini predicted.

FOOTBALL 2009 Barcelona - Messi - 0

Platini was speaking at the Bernabeu, home of Barca's arch rivals Real Madrid and had to choose his words carefully but said Messi's achievements last season made him a shoo-in.

"I think that the player I like best at the moment is an Argentine who plays for Barcelona," Platini said.

He added: "I like Messi very much and I think he will win all the trophies for best player at the end of the year.

"He had a fantastic year last year, like Cristiano Ronaldo the year before, and I think he deserves the recognition."

Argentina international Messi was named European Club Player of the Year in August for helping Pep Guardiola's Barca side win the Champions League last season.

The winner of the 2009 Ballon d'Or for the best player in Europe will be announced on Dec. 1 and Messi and Real's Portuguese winger Ronaldo, winner last year, were among the 30 players on the shortlist.

Messi is also expected to take Ronaldo's World Player of the Year crown.

Reuters

Comment 1 - 4 of 4

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  1. Yes, he (messi) is d next world best

    From m.ladeshina, on Sun 1 Nov 9:50PM

  2. He worked really hard last year.....so he deserves it.I­ hope he gets the reward of his efforts.

    From marilacson, on Tue 27 Oct 9:04AM

  3. Well deserved my boy!!!!.

    From samimancourier, on Mon 26 Oct 8:48AM

  4. It is well deserved...ronaldo had an awesome season for­ man united, but hasn't been as prolific since,­ whereas messi has stepped up and taken the crown for­ him! His overall determination, love for barca and­ undisputed talent should be recognised!!

    From w.tuttle, on Thu 22 Oct 8:33PM
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