Kaka takes Golden Ball award

NEWLY-CROWNED European Footballer of the Year Kaka has pledged his future to AC Milan.

The Brazilian playmaker, who is a devout Christian, was handed the Ballon d’Or (Golden Ball) yesterday after taking 444 points in France Football’s survey of 96 journalists from around the world.

“I reiterate that my future is in the hands of God,” said Kaka, who is the eighth Milan player to win the prestigious award.

“But my wish is to remain at AC Milan.

“I believe to be already an important player in this team and I would really like to become the captain and the leader of this team.”

The 25-year-old was the Champions League’s top scorer last season with 10 goals and he led his team to the title, with Milan overcoming Liverpool in Athens in the final.

Kaka beat Cristiano Ronaldo of Manchester United into second place, with the Portugal winger accumulating 277 votes in the poll.

Barcelona’s 20-year-old Lionel Messi was third, meaning the top three are also those vying to be named FIFA’s World Player of the Year later this month.

Chelsea’s Didier Drogba was fourth.

“I want to thank everyone,” said Kaka. “It’s a very special day for me, a very important day for my career and for all the Rossoneri fans.

“The Golden Ball is an individual award and for me this is a dream come true.

“Today I really feel this recognition to be truly mine.”

He added: “Perhaps I have been more decisive than Ronaldo and Messi.

“I faced Ronaldo last season while Messi, I believe he has been penalised for not winning a big competition like the domestic tournament or the Champions League.”