Former footballer Andriy Shevchenko has said that German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer should win the prestigious Ballon d'Or next week.

Neuer, who was a key part of the German side that won the World Cup, is up against Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi for the award which recognises the best player of the past year.

However, the ex-AC Milan and Chelsea forward is backing the Bayern Munich keeper to win.

"Neuer is fantastic because he is more than just a traditional goalkeeper," he told reporters.

"I still think Cristiano and Messi are the favourites. Ronaldo won the Champions League and was the star. All three have potential to be big winners, but I would choose Neuer because I think he did something special in the World Cup and also during his season with Bayern. He was fantastic throughout the year."

Neuer won the Golden Glove at the World Cup, which is given to the tournament's best goalkeeper.