Pedro: We voted for Messi

Barcelona striker Pedro has backed team-mate Lionel Messi to claim his fourth consecutive Ballon d’Or this year.

The Argentine is one of the favourites together with Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo and Barca midfielder Xavi.

Pedro said that while some reports indicate Real Madrid skipper Iker Casillas may nominate team-mate Sergio Ramos, Barcelona’s players have already cast their votes in favour of Messi.

“Hopefully Leo Messi will win the Ballon d’Or, he deserves it. We voted for Leo because he is a player that cannot be compared (to anyone else). Iker will have his reasons for voting for Sergio (Ramos),” he told Marca.

Pedro also discussed Saturday’s 5-0 thumping of Rayo Vallecano, which saw Barcelona increase their lead over Real Madrid to 11 points before Real’s clash with Mallorca on Sunday.

“We’re happy going step by step. We knew it would be difficult because the fans are so close (to the pitch), but in the second half we exploited the space and we got a good win. It was important for the team,” he said.

“We are in good form, we are confident and we hope to continue with the good run and lose as few points as possible. It was a big game on a difficult pitch and we are very happy with the win.”