Thiago: Messi should claim top prize

Barcelona midfielder Thiago Alcantara believe his team-mate Lionel Messi should win the FIFA Ballon d’Or.

Argentina international Messi is up against Barca team-mate Xavi Hernandez and Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo for the annual FIFA award, and the 20-year-old feels the South American deserves the title.

“Leo Messi deserves the Ballon d’Or ahead of Xavi and Cristiano Ronaldo. It’s a pleasure playing alongside him,” the Spain international told Marca.

Thiago has made big strides under Barca coach Pep Guardiola, and is eager to progress further as a player during the next 12 months.

“In 2012 I want to continue working, learning from my peers, and continue the work of recent years,” he said.

Barcelona have been drawn against Osasuna in the Copa del Rey last 16, with the first leg to take place on Wednesday, and Thiago feels his side are in the right physical condition to get a victory.

“We are alright, have no problems, and we are perfectly in order to play against Osasuna,” he said.