Roy Hodgson backs Wayne Rooney for FIFA Ballon d'Or return next year

England manager Roy Hodgson has backed Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney to challenge for the FIFA Ballon d'Or again next year.

Rooney found himself left out of the 23-man shortlist for the 2014 edition of the world's most coveted individual award after failing to reach the 20-goal barrier last season.

"Those Ballon d'Or nominations come from all over the world and it's based on last season," Hodgson told The Mirror.

"So if you are playing in a team which has its problems and is regarded as unsuccessful, it's very difficult for you to get your name put forward.

"We'd all like him to be included in a year's time – because that would mean he had been a success for club and country."

The 29-year-old has struck three times in eight Premier League outings so far this season.