Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola has hailed the work-rate of star winger Franck Ribery.
The Frenchman is on the three-man shortlist for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award, alongside Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi of Barcelona, who Guardiola worked with at Camp Nou.
Ribery played a key role in Bayern’s Bundesliga and Champions League success last term and has been in fine form in the current campaign, with six goals and eight assists in 13 appearances to date.
The tricky winger is often lauded for his creativity and attacking quality, but Guardiola feels it is Ribery’s industry that makes him stand out above his rivals.
“I have never seen a player with Ribery’s character at this level,” Guardiola told Bild.
“The way he keeps fighting and running for the team is incredible. It’s an honour for me to coach Franck.”
The Bundesliga is currently on its winter break and Bayern are not in action until January 24 when they travel to Borussia Monchengladbach.
The Bavarians are battling for silverware on multiple fronts again this term and are seven points clear of second-placed Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga table.
They face English outfit Arsenal in the last 16 of the Champions League, with the first leg set to take place in London on February 19.
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