|
|
It is clear Casillas deserves Ballon d'Or, says Miguel Reina
Jul 9, 2012 10:25:00 AM
The Liverpool custodian's father has praised the Real Madrid No.1 after his performances last term, and believes he would be a worthy winner of the accolade
Former Barcelona and Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Miguel Reina believes that Iker Casillas deserves to win the Ballon d'Or, after his performances for Real Madrid and Spain over the last year.
The 66-year-old, who is the father of Liverpool shot-stopper Pepe Reina, has praised Los Blancos' keeper for his fine campaign in 2011-12, where he captained his club to Liga glory, and kept five clean sheets as La Roja won Euro 2012.
“It is clear Casillas deserves [the Ballon d'Or],” he told AS. “He had a great European Championship, and had a very good season with Madrid, winning La Liga.
“Honestly, for the work he's done, he undoubtedly deserves it. I have no doubt that he has done more than enough to merit the award.
“Casillas has shown a human quality, and is a role model for all young people. Furthermore, he showed immense fair play in the Euro final.
"When the referee added on time at the end of the game, Casillas asked the assistant referee not to add on any more minutes out of respect for Italy. It was unnecessary to draw any more blood from the Italians.
“Casillas is a symbol for football, and sport in general.”
He did, however, concede that goalkeepers do not receive enough recognition, and that could hold him back winning the award.
"Maybe that will be a problem for Casillas. Awards like this are never given to goalkeepers. It is always the forwards [that win], because they get all the glory.
"It is about time a goalkeeper was given the Ballon d'Or. It is the most difficult position in football, and deserves equal recognition.
“Players like [Dino] Zoff and [Oliver] Kahn were two great keepers, but never received enough recognition. Buffon also. This year it will be difficult [for Casillas to win], but for his effort and his career so far, he deserves it.”
| Sign up today with Ladbrokes and get a $20 welcome bonus! |
|
Related Stories
Inside Goal.Com
-
Like Owomoyela, like Sam
The German-Nigerian has been put in the dicey position of having to decide his international future after J Loew called him up last week
-
Arsenal hold their nerve in top-four battle
Arsene Wenger's side produced a clinical performance to secure a top-four Premier League finish but now they must kick on if they wish to challenge for honours next year
-
Player Ratings: Newcastle 0-1 Arsenal
Laurent Koscielny's 52nd-minute volley secured the Gunners the win over Alan Pardew's side and made sure they would be playing Champions League football next season
-
Player Ratings: West Brom 5-5 Man Utd
Sir Alex Ferguson was given a farewell to remember, but certainly not for the right reasons as the Romelu Lukaku-led hosts battled back from three goals down to earn an unlikely point
-
Who is the greatest Champions League striker ever?
Enter our competition now and you will be in with a chance of winning one of four replica football shirts. Simply pick your favourite and subscribe to our YouTube channel