Nedved tips Shevchenko for Ballon d’Or

Pavel Nedved has tipped Andrei Shevchenko to succeed him as Ballon d’Or winner this year.

The Ukrainian striker was instrumental in Milan’s Sucdetto success last season and according to Nedved, would be a worthy winner of the European Footballer of the Year award.

“‘Sheva’ would deserve the award,” Nedved told France Football.

“In Serie A, the defences are very strong and it’s difficult scoring but he scores regularly and, every time Milan have had problems, he’s helped them.

“The Ballon d’Or is the most important award for a player.

“I had a fantastic period this year but it was also intense and with big stress.

“It’s not a weight but a big responsibility because, after it, everyone expects only great performances from you and so it’s difficult.”