TEHRANTIMES - Iran coach Carlos Queiroz selected his compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo as the best player of the year 2014.

Ronaldo successfully defended his world player of the year status convincingly with 37.66% of all votes, winning for a third time.

Barcelona and Argentina star Lionel Messi – who won four years in a row until Ronaldo beat him last year, was second on 15.76%. He was narrowly ahead of Bayern Munich and Germany keeper Manuel Neuer, who had 15.72%.

It’s the third time total that the Portuguese player has won the award.

Iran captain Javad Nekounam also voted for Ronaldo, Messi and Neuer respectively.