The Uruguay international has backed the attacker to win the individual award, while he has also voiced his admiration for Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Liverpool star Luis Suarez has backed Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery to win the Ballon d’Or ahead of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Messi has won the game’s greatest individual prize four times, but Suarez believes Ribery could dethrone the Barcelona forward following his successful campaign with Bayern.

“I don’t think there’s one clear favourite for the Ballon d’Or. Based on last year’s performances, Ribery deserves to win it after his incredible treble with Bayern Munich,” Suarez told RMC.

“But Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi have a good case as well following all their goals. They have some spectacular statistics.

“Regardless of who will win it, he deserves it.”

The Uruguay international then went on to praise Paris Saint-Germain striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who has also made the 23-man shortlist for the Ballon d’Or.

“Ibrahimovic really is an incredible player. It’s impressive what he does with his tall body.

“His spectacular goals in recent weeks have been inspiring.”

Suarez has been in fine form for Liverpool since his return from suspension and has scored six goals in five Premier League games so far.