Alex backs Zlatan Ibrahimovic for FIFA Ballon d'Or award

Paris Saint-Germain defender Alex believes that Zlatan Ibrahimovic's performance against England on Wednesday will help him in his bid to win the 2012 FIFA Ballon d'Or.

The 31-year-old scored all four goals for Sweden in their 4-2 victory over England in a friendly international on Wednesday.

"I hope that his performance can help him in the race for the Ballon d'Or," said Alex. "But at the same time, it is a bit risky to say that he will win the competition with exceptional players like [Lionel] Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo up against him.

"But it is certain that his performance will inevitably be a strong argument and should help. In fact, I have not seen his exploits. But everyone is talking about them, including his last great goal.

"It proves once again that he is a player that makes a difference wherever he goes. We hope he will continue to make the difference with us at PSG."

PSG will host Rennes in Ligue 1 on Saturday.