Neuer joins Ronaldo, Messi on Ballon D''Or shortlist

Zurich: Manuel Neuer became the first goalkeeper since 2002 to make the final short list for the FIFA world player of the year award on Monday when he was included alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in the final three. Argentina and Barcelona forward Messi, winner on four occasions, made the shortlist for the eighth time in a row and Portugal's Ronaldo, winner in 2008 and last year, for the fourth time running. Germany coach Joachim Loew, Real Madrid's Carlo Ancelotti and Atletico Madrid's Diego Simeone were selected for the Coach of the Year award. Germany and Bayern Munich goalkeeper Neuer helped his country win this year's World Cup and often doubled up as a sweeper, rushing out of his penalty area to intercept opponents' attacks. He is the first goalkeeper to make the final three since compatriot Oliver Kahn was included on the shortlist in 2002. — Reuters

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