Ruben De la Red has tipped former Real Madrid team-mate Iker Casillas to win the Ballon d Or after his performances for club and country.
After leading Jose Mourinho s team to the La Liga title, the Spanish international goalkeeper then helped his country defend their European title in Poland and Ukraine.
The truth is, goalkeepers maintain a different outlook to the rest of the team, De la Red, who retired in 2010 due to a chronic heart problem, told AS.
To me, saving a goal is just as important as scoring one. Through that, Casillas has done enough to deserve the Ballon d Or.
Other players thought to be in prime contention for the award are Casillas Madrid team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as Barcelona duo Lionel Messi and Andres Iniesta.