Lionel Messi wins Ballon d'Or

Argentina international striker Lionel Messi has won the Ballon d'Or for a record fourth consecutive time. The Barcelona frontman has been in inspired form this year, and his 91 goals scored in 2012 has earned him the world player of the year accolade yet again.An incredible feat for the Argentine.

Argentine Messi saw off competition from his Barcelona club team mate Andres Iniesta and Real Madrid's star forward Cristiano Ronaldo to win the title. Even though Messi won the Ballon d'Or, his team were not as successful as bitter rivals Real Madrid won the Primera Liga title and Barca were also unable to win the Champions League, which happened to
have been won by Chelsea.

The incredible feat of scoring 92 goals in one year came in 69 games for his club and country. So far in 232 games for Barcelona, Messi has already scored 196 goals. Many believe that the 25 year old will win more Ballon d'Or titles, seeing as he has yet to reach the best age of his career. I’d wager a cheeky bet at eyefootball.com that it will happen again.

"To tell you the truth this is really quite unbelievable," said a delighted Messi. "The fourth award that I have had is just too great for words.

"I would like to recognise my other colleagues from Barcelona. Andres, it has been great to train and play alongside you."

Messi has helped Barcelona to top of La Liga this year, where Barcelona currently hold a commanding lead over second placed Atletico Madrid, whilst rivals Real Madrid - the current champions - currently sit third in the league table.