LUIS SUAREZ’S stunning form for Liverpool has been rewarded after he was shortlisted for the World Footballer of the Year award.
The Reds striker is one of 23 players in contention for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award.
Suarez is joined on the shortlist by three other Premier League players – Wayne Rooney, Sergio Aguero and Nani.
It’s been a year to remember for Suarez who joined Liverpool from Ajax in January for £22.8million.
The 24-year-old scored on his debut against Stoke and was key to the transformation in the Reds’ fortunes under Kenny Dalglish in the second half of last season.
Suarez continued his remarkable club form on the international stage in the summer as he inspired Uruguay to glory in the Copa America.
He netted his fourth goal in six games in the final victory over Paraguay and was named player of the tournament, his efforts overshadowing the likes of Argentina’s Lionel Messi and Brazil’s Neymar.
Suarez carried on where he left off when the Premier League started in August and he has been Liverpool’s outstanding performer – terrorising defences and cementing his Kop idol status.
His haul of 11 goals in 26 appearances for Liverpool doesn’t do justice to the scale of his contribution.
Hot favourite Lionel Messi is one of eight Barcelona players on the 23-man shortlist which will be reduced to a final three on December 5. The winner will be revealed at the second FIFA Ballon d’Or gala in Zurich on January 9.
Spain coach Vicente Del Bosque is among 10 candidates nominated for the manager of the year award.
