Manuel Neuer rules out Ballon D'or chances

Germany keeper Manuel Neuer has claimed that he is unlikely to win the Ballon D'or due to his position on the pitch.

The 28-year-old has enjoyed a successful year and helped his country to win the World Cup this summer.

He was also part of Bayern Munich's double-winning side last season, but he believes that the award will go to someone who plays at the other end of the field.

"I'm a sportsman, not an ambassador for a brand, beyond being Adidas's first goalkeeper," Neuer told Kicker. "I'm not some guy who poses in his underpants.

"I don't like the red carpet. I prefer the green turf. I feel better on the pitch trying to be the best I can be.

"After the games, the main things they show are goals, the chances, the assists. Spectators don't tend to remember that the keeper stopped difficult balls by taking a big risk or organised the play from the back."

Neuer was in action for Germany during their 4-0 win over Gibraltar last week.