Udinese veteran striker Antonio di Natale is proud to have made the final 50 of the Ballon d'Or.

Di Natale is understood to be the only Italian to be up for the prize after scoring 57 League goals over the last two campaigns.

"It's an honour that fills me with pride," he told the club's official website. "To be mentioned alongside players such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo doesn't happen every day.

"Obviously being the only Italian in the list makes it even more satisfying," continued the 34-year-old forward.

"However, if FIFA and France Football thought of me then it is also thanks to my teammates and my club.

"Without them I would never have been able to achieve certain objectives during these last few years."