England

Ronaldo Nothing Compared To Messi - Henry

Barcelona forward Thierry Henry has claimed that Cristiano Ronaldo does not deserve to win the Ballon D'Or this year and thrown his weight behind the bid of team-mate Leo Messi, whom he insists is the best player in the world...

Nov 10, 2008 6:52:33 AM

Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi (PA)

In just over three weeks time, the announcement of European Footballer of the Year will be made, with Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo and Barça's Lionel Messi the front-runners competing for the prestigious Ballon D'Or prize.

Also in the running are Iker Casillas, Xavi and Fernando Torres, but the real battle for supremacy in being waged by the United and Blaugrana front-men.

Messi has claimed that either Xavi or Sergio Kun Aguero should take the award from the 30-man shortlist, while Ronaldo has plumped for himself as the most deserving nominee.

Now, Barcelona's French forward Thierry Henry has thrown his support behind his 21-year-old club colleague for the honour and hailed him as the 'best' player on the continent, and indeed, in the world.

The former Arsenal captain, who finished third in the Ballon D'Or pecking order in 2006 behind Italian duo Fabio Cannavaro and Gianluigi Buffon, told the press: "Messi is the best. What he does is from another world.

"He is exceptional.

"After watching Arsenal against Manchester United, I insist Cristiano Ronaldo is one thing and Messi is another.

"There is no comparison. Messi deserves to win the Ballon d'Or this year."

--Peter Staunton, Goal.com