The 86-year-old believes the shot-stopper deserves his recognition, but does not think a goalkeeper will be bestowed the award as the emphasis is put on outfield players
Real Madrid legend Alfredo Di Stefano is sceptical about Iker Casillas' chances of winning the 2012 Fifa Ballon d'Or award.The 31-year-old goalkeeper enjoyed a successful season with Madrid, featuring in 37 La Liga matches and guided his team to their first league crown since 2008. He carried his form into Euro 2012 with Spain where he conceded just one goal during the tournament to help La Roja defend their title.
| CASILLAS' 2011-12 STATS |
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MATCHES PLAYED MINUTES PLAYED MATCHES WON CLEAN SHEETS |
MADRID 53 4770 41 20 |
SPAIN 11 939 10 10 |
| READ MORE ON CASILLAS |
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"Casillas deserves to be paid homage to because he is a great goalkeeper, but playing with your feet and not with your hands is what counts now, so I do not think he will get the Ballon d'Or," he told reporters.
"But to recognise him as the best goalkeeper at the Euros is a good award."
Spain became the first side to secure back-to-back European Championship titles and to win three major international tournaments in a row, and Di Stefano praised Vicente del Bosque's side and their style.
"In football, the word 'play' is very important, and that is what Spain do: play football," the Argentine added.
"The best thing about Spain at the Euros is that they played well, they were very balanced and they deserved to win.
"There are players, characteristics and a team for Spain to continue to function perfectly.
"Spain are technically the best team I have seen. They are a good and efficient team and they also win."
