Gary Lineker backs Cristiano Ronaldo for Ballon d'Or

Former England international Gary Lineker believes that Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo deserves to scoop this year's Ballon d'Or award.

Some have tipped Franck Ribery to be named the world's best player after winning the Bundesliga title and Champions League with Bayern Munich last season.

Barcelona star Lionel Messi, who helped guide the Catalan side to La Liga glory in the 2012-13 campaign, is also in contention after he picked up his fourth consecutive award last year.

Lineker wrote on Twitter: "Lots of talk of Ribery winning Ballon d'Or. He's had a great year but I think Ronaldo should win. It's for the best player not the best team."

Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero and Liverpool star Luis Suarez are both among the players on the shortlist.