England's Lucy Bronze shortlisted for Golden Ball

England defender Lucy Bronze has been shortlisted for the Golden Ball, the award for the best player at the Women's World Cup.

Bronze, 23, was a rock for the Lionesses throughout the campaign and scored twice, once against Norway and the other over hosts Canada.

England were knocked out in the semi-final after a 2-1 defeat to current world champions Japan.

The eight-player shortlist includes top goal scorer Celia Sasic (Germany); Saori Ariyoshi (Japan); Lucy Bronze (England); Amandine Henry (France); Julie Johnston (USA); Carli Lloyd (USA); Aya Miyama (Japan); Megan Rapinoe (USA).

Tang Jiali (China), Ada Hegerberg (Norway) and Kadeisha Buchanan (Canada) are all shortlisted for the young player award.

Nadine Angerer (Germany), Ayumi Kaihori (Japan) and Hope Solo (USA) are all up for the World Cup's best goalkeeper.

The winners will be announced after Sunday's final between the USA and Japan.