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Ronaldo says Griezmann deserved Best Player in Europe award

Last updated on: August 26, 2016 18:04 IST

IMAGE: Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo poses with French player Antoine Griezmann after receiving the 'UEFA 2015/16 Best Player' award during the draw ceremony for the 2016/2017 Champions League at Monaco's Grimaldi in Monaco, on August 25, 2016. Photograph: Eric Gaillard/Reuters

After being named this year's UEFA's 'Best Player in Europe', Portugal and Real Madrid star striker Cristiano Ronaldo insisted that Atletico Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann deserved the coveted trophy more than him.

- PHOTOS: Ronaldo is UEFA's 2015-16 'Best Player in Europe'

"As I said on the stage, he (Griezmann) deserved to win this trophy. He lost two finals, so it was unlucky for him, but I think he's a fantastic player, he's a good boy, he's my neighbour -- he lives next to me -- and he deserved it," the Portuguese international said.

Ronaldo bagged the gong after inspiring Real Madrid to Champions League glory with a 5-3 win over Atletico Madrid in a dramatic penalty shoot-out, before winning Euro 2016 with Portugal following a 1-0 win after extra-time against hosts France in July.

IMAGE: The final nominees for the 2015/16 UEFA Best Player in Europe award (from right to left) Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Antoine Griezmann at the draw ceremony for the 2016/2017 Champions League at Monaco's Grimaldi in Monaco on Thursday. Photograph: Eric Gaillard/Reuters

The 31-year-old also credited his club and country teammates for playing their part in winning the accolade.

The three-time Ballon d'Or winner also insisted that he is also hoping to clinch his fourth Ballon d'Or.

"I hope to win the Ballon d'Or but let me enjoy first this trophy. It's amazing. I wish to win tonight and I'm so proud. I have to thank you to my team mates -- Real Madrid and national -- because they helped me a lot to win these trophies, he said.

The Real Madrid striker, who has been out of action since injuring his knee in the successful Euro 2016 final, is expected to make a return in Saturday's match against Celta Vigo at the Santiago Bernabeu. 

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