Casillas: It's a tough vote

Real Madrid captain Iker Casillas says he does not know who to back for this year's Ballon d'Or.

The 31-year-old goalkeeper who is also listed for the award believes there is 'plenty of time to think' before voting.
　
He said: 'I have to analyze it well. It's a tough vote because there are many very good players.

'But I have plenty of time to think about it as I don't have to vote until December.

The list supplied by UEFA includes Spain internationals Iker Casillas, Xabi Alonso, Cesc Fábregas, Andrés Iniesta, Sergio Ramos, David Silva, Fernando Torrés and Xavi Hernández. They are joined by another six players from the Spanish league: Messi, Falcao, Cristiano Ronaldo, Fabio Coentrao, Pepe and Mesut Özil.
　
Other names that stand out are Raúl González (Schalke 04), Sergio Agüero (Manchester City), Didier Drogba (Chelsea), Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Milan), Luka Modric (Tottenham), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus) and Mario Balotelli (Manchester City).
　
The winner will be announced at the UEFA ceremony to be held on 30th August in Monaco, during the draw for the group stages of the Champions League.　　July 17, 2012.