Neymar delighted with Ballon d'Or reports

Brazilian striker Neymar was thrilled to see his named linked with the shortlist for the FIFA Ballon d'Or award.

Neymar has scored 78 goals since breaking into the Santos starting lineup in 2009.

Such form has seen him mentioned as a contender for an award previously won by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

"It is a big happiness to be on a list like that while playing in Brazil," he told Globoesporte.

"I am very happy with all I have been through in my career, the good things and the bad things.

"I only have everyone to thank."

The 19-year-old continued his good goalscoring form by finding the net on four occasions as Santos defeated Atletico yesterday evening.