Spain coach Vicente del Bosque believes Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo deserves the Ballon d'Or.

The veteran midfielder is among the candidates for the trophy after a remarkable campaign that saw Italy reach the Euro 2012 Final and Juventus end the season unbeaten in Serie A.

"Yes, Pirlo could well win the Ballon d'Or," Del Bosque told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

"He is a complete footballer, capable of creating the play and finishing it off. Admittedly, though, I hope the prize goes to a Spanish player."