Reina backs Casillas for Ballon d’Or
Iker Casillas , Real Madrid
The 66-year-old believes the Real Madrid captain was a star for his club during the 2011/12 campaign and also led by example at the European Championship while captaining Spain.
"It is clear Casillas deserves [the Ballon d'Or]," Reina told AS. "He had a great European Championship, and had a very good season with Madrid, winning La Liga.
"Honestly, for the work he's done, he undoubtedly deserves it. I have no doubt that he has done more than enough to merit the award.
"Casillas is a symbol for football, and sport in general."
Reina also conceded that goalkeepers were often overlooked for prestigious awards, but believes Casillas could be the next one to win the coveted award.
"Maybe that will be a problem for Casillas. Awards like this are never given to goalkeepers. It is always the forwards [that win], because they get all the glory,” he said.
"It is about time a goalkeeper was given the Ballon d'Or. It is the most difficult position in football, and deserves equal recognition.
"Players like [Dino] Zoff and [Oliver] Kahn were two great keepers, but never received enough recognition; Buffon also.
“This year it will be difficult [for Casillas to win], but for his effort and his career so far, he deserves it."
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