Ronaldo, Bale, Kroos, and Pepe Selected in Shortlist for Best Player in Europe Award

UEFA have selected their shortlist for their 2016 best player in Europe award, and Real Madrid have the most representatives, with Ronaldo, Bale, Kroos, and Pepe making the list along with Griezmann, Messi, Buffon, Muller, Neuer and Luis Suarez.

This list of 10 has been cut from the original list of 37 nominees and the final three candidates will be decided on August 5th, with the ceremony taking place on August 25th.

Ronaldo will be the favorite, having taken home the Champions League and the EURO Cup whilst scoring an incredible 51 goals in all competitions. But he will face some tough competition from 2015/16's best goalscorer in Luis Suarez and the ever present Lionel Messi.

While Bale, Pepe, and Kroos are unlikely to make the podium, they can take this inclusion in the top 10 as a sense of recognition for their efforts. Despite several injuries, Bale has had a fantastic season for Real Madrid and Wales, showing immense leadership qualities and coolness in clutch moments. Kroos likewise, has been consistently brilliant, and was a key cog of Real Madrid's Champions League victory. Pepe should take the most joy however, as he has been the most overlooked defender of the past 4 years. Ever since the reign of Carlo Ancelotti, Pepe has been one of the most consistent defenders in the world with one of the best disciplinary records. His experience was crucial in Real Madrid's success and Portugal's improbable EURO 2016 win.