Ballon d’Or 2019: France Football reveal reasons why Neymar was left off the shortlist for the award

The Brazilian was a high-profile omission from the 30-man shortlist

Ballon d’Or organisers France Football have revealed why Neymar was left off their 30-man shortlist for the award.

The Brazilian was among the highest profile omission from the list, along with last year’s winner Luka Modric and Harry Kane.

And France Football have now revealed the reasons behind their decision not to shortlist the 27-year-old after what they described as a “black year”.

It is the first time since 2010 that the Paris Saint-Germain forward has failed to make the shortlist.

The organising body has revealed eight reasons for his exclusion.

They are:

• January 23 – Metatarsal injury
• March 6 – Abusing match official after Man Utd match
• April 27 – Pushing a supporter
• June 6 – Ankle injury ahead of Copa America
• August 9 – Cleared of rape allegation
• Transfer window – Failed move to Barcelona
• September 14 – Jeered by PSG fans
• October 13 – Another injury on international duty

Neymar was absent with that metatarsal injury as PSG exited the Champions League to Manchester United in the Round of 16, though he did help his side win the French title.

He scored 23 goals in 28 games for PSG last season, and has begun this with four goals in five Ligue 1 games.

Former Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi is among the favourites for the award, presented annually to the best male football player since 1956, along with Liverpool centre-back Virgil Van Dijk and Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo.]