Casemiro: Cristiano Ronaldo "has to win the Ballon d'Or"

Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro has insisted that his teammate Cristiano Ronaldo deserves to win the FIFA Ballon d'Or.

Ronaldo, along with Lionel Messi, is regarded as the favourite for the award, but Casemiro believes that there is one clear winner.

"He has to win the Ballon d'Or. He is spectacular," the Brazilian told the club's official website.

"There is no doubt that he is the best player around right now. If he scores two goals in a match, he always wants more and keeps on giving.

"I always watch what he does. He trains well, is always happy and has always helped me."

Ronaldo has scored 24 goals in 17 games for Madrid this season.