Post by Taxigirl on Dec 2, 2003 9:28:06 GMT
Pavel Nedved says he can’t wait for the Golden Ball to be awarded to the winner – so he can stop answering questions on it.
The Juventus star is one of the favourites to be named as the European Footballer of the Year even if he’s not overly concerned with it.
"This is turning into an obsession for people and I can’t wait for all this fuss to end," said the Czech Republic star.
"I just want to concentrate on football again, on training and on actual games for my club and country.
"I would obviously be pleased if I was named as the Golden Ball winner but if I don’t it wouldn’t be the end of the world.
"After all, the trophies that really count in this game are those that you win on the field of play."
Nedved has had a superb 2003 after winning the Scudetto, helping his club to the Champions’ League Final and qualifying for Euro 2004 with the Czechs.
Meanwhile, rumours circulating around Europe on Friday suggest that Nedved has come third in the FIFA Player of the Year prize.
Thierry Henry is said to have won that particular trophy, ahead of Zinedine Zidane. Two players who ironically both played for Juventus in the past.