Zidane: Ronaldo Was The Worthy Winner

Ronaldo's team-mate at Real Madrid Zinedine Zidane has backed the decision to name the Brazilian as the European Footballer of the Year.

The striker was handed the Golden Ball for the second time in his career, although due to his injury ravaged year in domestic football the decision has been criticised.

However, Zidane doesn't agree, as he told France Football: "Considering his performances at the World Cup, eight goals in seven matches including two in the final, it was completely logical that Ronaldo receives the Golden Ball this year."

"Ronaldo is truly a great champion, I knew that we could still count on him."

Zidane, who won the award in 1998, was fourth this year.