Golden ball favourites

Manchester United's ace winger Cristiano Ronaldo and FC Barcelona's forward Lionel messi are the most likely conntenders to win this year’s Golden Ball, awarded to Europe’s top player. Ronaldo finished second to AC Milan midfielder Kaka last year, while Messi was third. Kaka was again among the 30 nominees but looking at his performance there is slim chance he will win.The Portugese winger had scored 42 goals in all competitions to help United win the Premier League title and the Champions League last season.