Manchester United Dugout

Cristiano Ronaldo has been won the 2008 Ballon d'Or, beating Lionel Messi and Fernando Torres. The prestigious award was confirmed by France Football magazine, who present the trophy based on a poll of 96 top journalists.

The Manchester United winger came second in last year's poll, behind Brazil star Kaka, but his outstanding form last season, scoring 42 goals in all competitions for United, ensured he took the award this time. Ronaldo scored 42 goals last season to propel United to glory in both the Barclays Premier League and Champions League. Having already won the FIFPro World Player of the Year and the top domestic prizes from the Professional Footballers' Association and the Football Writers last season, this award was unachieved by Ron.

Ronaldo's was the only name to appear on each of the 96 ballots, polling 446 points out of a maximum 480. Messi and Torres bagged a respective 267 and 165 points. This award makes him the first United player to claim the Ballon d'Or since George Best in 1968. What an honour for Manchester United.

Congrats Cristiano. I hope you continue last years sparkling form and help ManU retain last years trophies.