5 players who do not deserve to be on the 30 man Ballon d'Or shortlist

Koke (Atletico Madrid/ Spain)

The talented Spanish midfielder had a stellar campaign with Atletico Madrid last year, but he failed to stand up when it mattered the most, putting in slightly sub-par performances in crucial games like the Champions League final.

Spain manager Vicente Del Bosque did not have the faith to play him in the Euros and chose Fabregas and Silva ahead of the 24-year-old midfielder. While there is no doubting the talent of Koke, the midfielder will need to stand up and be counted more in the big games to be really considered among the very best in the world.

The Rojiblancos star has long been considered to be a long-term heir to Xavi in Spain and if he keeps up his performances and consistency he might well achieve that although his nomination this year might just be one year too early.