Germany World Cup-winning goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, the Netherlands talisman, Arjen Robben, and reigning Fifa World Player of the Year, Cristiano Ronaldo, have been named on the final three man shortlist for Uefa’s Best Player in Europe award for 2013/14.
The prize was inaugurated in 2011 by Europe football’s ruling body, Uefa. A jury made up of journalists from the 54 member associations of UEFA will vote to decide the winner.
Bayern Munich’s Franck Ribery claimed the prize last season.
Neuer put up an outstanding performance for Germany at this summer World Cup and eventually claimed the Best Goalkeeper Award (the golden gloves). The goal-tender alongside Robben were part of Bayern Munich’s squad that claimed a domestic league and cup double last season.
Robben, as well impressed in Brazil, helping the Netherlands finish third.
Portuguese star Ronaldo had an injury-plagued World Cup campaign, but spearheaded Real Madrid’s attack on their track to a tenth European Champions League title last season.
Angel Di Maria, Diego Costa, Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi, Philipp Lahm, James Rodriguez and Thomas Muller were on the original shortlist.
The winner will be announced on 28 August in Monaco, where the draw for the group stage of the UEFA Champions League is taking place.
