Ronald, Messi, Neuer make final cut for Ballon d'Or

Real Madrid Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal), Lionel Messi (Argentina) and Manuel Neuer (Germany) have been named as the final three candidates for the FIFA Ballon d'Or 2014.

Ronaldo, Messi are regular suspects on this platform but German and Bayern Munich goalie is making the cut and also has a potential of winning based on his performance both for club and during the recent World Cup.

The candidates for the FIFA World Coach of the Year for Men’s Football were also announced amongst o the categories.

Carlo Ancelotti (Italy/Real Madrid CF)

Joachim Loew (Germany/German national team) 

Diego Simeone (Argentina/Atletico de Madrid)

Spanish league well represented and world cup winners justified, what is happening in England and other climes?

More on the nominees for other categories here

Ronaldo, Bale confirmed as Benzema sweat for fitness ahead for UCL final

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is positive over the fitness of Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale for the UEFA Champions League final against Athletico Madrid on Saturday.

He made it clear that CR7 and Bale will feature in the epic final against fellow city rivals but cast aspersions on the the return of Karim Benzema and Pepe.

"There's no problem, and I think those two (Bale and Ronaldo) are going to be able to play.'' said the manager.

When asked about the fitness situation on Tuesday, Ancelotti revealed his only serious concerns were Pepe and Benzema.

He said "They're the only two players about whom we have doubts. I'm neither optimistic nor pessimistic. I'm a realist and, as things stand right now, of course they wouldn't be able to play.

"We have four days to the final and we'll wait and see. If Pepe can't play, (Raphael) Varane can play in his place.