FIFA HAVE ANNOUNCED its 10-man shortlist for the Golden Ball, the prize awarded for the World Cup’s best player.

Unsurprisingly, given the make-up of Sunday’s World Cup final, the list includes four German players and three from Argentina.

Germany lead the way with star players Thomas Müller, Toni Kroos, Philipp Lahm and Mats Hummels named. Argentina’s Lionel Messi, Javier Mascherano and the injured Angel di Maria are also up for the prestigious reward.

There is a personal consolation for Arjen Robben [Netherlands] and Neymar [Brazil] after their countries were eliminated after the semi-final stage. James Rodriguez  of Colombia is also named. His team were knocked out in the last eight but Rodriguez still managed to score six goals and contribute three assists.

Rodriguez and Neymar are both in contention for the Golden Ball. Natacha Pisarenko Natacha Pisarenko

Two French players have made it onto the three-man Best Young Player list. Dutch winger Memphis Depay joins Paul Pogba and Rahael Varane in the running for that prize.

German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer will have to do with a nomination for the Golden Glove [best goalkeeper]. He has been included in that list, along with Sergio Romero [Argentina] and Keylor Navas [Costa Rica].

What do you make of the Golden Ball and other nominations? Are there any glaring omissions?

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