Villa boss Houllier not surprised by Ballon d’Or English snub

Aston Villa boss Gerard Houllier isn't surprised no English nominees made the Ballon d'Or shortlist.

Andres Iniesta, who scored the winning goal in the World Cup final, is nominated along with Barcelona team-mates Xavi, Carles Puyol and David Villa. Real Madrid's Iker Casillas and Xabi Alonso are also listed.

Houllier said: "The Ballon D'Or usually takes into account the World Cup or the European Championships of that year and also if a player has won the Champions League for instance.

"I mean no English team won the Champions League for 2010 and England went out in the second round in South Africa. That's why. It's not a surprise.

"You can imagine players who were with Barcelona in the semi-final and those who won the World Cup would be there. Players who have never won it are the likes of Xavi and Iniesta."

 
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