Van Persie to miss Ballon D'Or

Robin van Persie has confirmed he will not attend the FIFA Ballon d’Or ceremony in Zurich because of the ankle injury he suffered in Manchester United’s defeat to Southampton yesterday.

Van Persie’s World Cup header against Spain is one of three goals shortlisted for the Puskas goal of the year award, which is due to be handed out at a lavish ceremony in Switzerland this evening.