Ronny makes elite shortlist

United's Cristiano Ronaldo is among three nominees shortlisted for the FIFA World Player of the Year award.

The Portuguese winger goes head-to-head with AC Milan star Kaka and Barcelona's Argentine prodigy Lionel Messi for the prestigious accolade.

Voting is conducted by coaches and captains of international teams, and the winner will be announced at a gala ceremony in Zurich on December 17.

The last United player to feature in the award's top three was David Beckham, who finished second in 1999 and 2001 to Rivaldo and Luis Figo respectively.

Ronaldo's influence was integral to United regaining the Barclays Premier League title, while his sustained fine form in the UEFA Champions League and in Portugal's Euro 2008 qualifying campaign also counts in his favour.

Brazilian star Kaka is widely regarded as the favourite for the award by virtue of his part in Milan's Champions League success last season.