Manchester United Dugout

United winger Cristiano Ronaldo became the first Premier League star to be named FIFA's world player of the year. He beat AC Milan's Kaka, Liverpool's Fernando Torres and Barcelona's Lionel Messi and Xavi to take the award at a star-studded gala in Zurich.

2008 -09 season was fantastic for Ronaldo as his 31 league goals and 42 in total, won him the European Golden Shoe as the continent's top scorer. His performances also won him the Ballon d'Or by France Football magazine, and named FIFPro's player of the year. It caps a stunning year for the 23-year-old in which he played the starring role as United won the Premier League, Champions League and Club World Cup.

While speaking after collecting the award from Pele, Ronaldo dedicated the award to his family but also paid tribute to influence of United manager Sir Alex Ferguson. He said: "It's a dream come true for me to get this award and I would like to dedicate this to my family. "But it's also true that the manager always has an important role to play. It was a great season for me and for my club, and the coach was important for me because I learned a lot for him.

"His experience over so many years is of paramount importance - it's a privilege to have such a great club manager. "This is the climax of a fantastic era for me. I'm happy and proud about what has been done by my team and what we have won. "I am lucky to to be part of the history of a club like Manchester United."