Van Nistelrooy Named in Uefa's XI


In the Top Team!

By Chris O'Brien
January 12 2004

Ruud Van Nistelrooy has received another big honour, with the Dutch striker named in the Uefa team of the year for 2003. The Manchester United star was named alongside Thierry Henry up front. Former United star David Beckham was also named amongst the XI. New Page 2

Van Nistelrooy Named in Uefa's Top Team
Ruud Van Nistelrooy has been included in Uefa's team of the year selection, with the Dutch forward one of only two Premiership players named amongst the XI. Little need to ask who that is, with Arsenal striker Thierry Henry named alongside Van Nistelrooy in a 2-man forward line. The two-men partnering each other up front in real life is a mouth-watering prospect.

The midfield is mainly a Real Madrid affair, with Luis Figo, Zinedine Zidane former United star David Beckham named alongside Juventus' Paulo Nedved. Another player from Carlos Quieroz's star-studded squad is included, with Roberto Carlos named on the left side of midfield. The Brazillian international is joined by Porto's Paulo Ferreira and AC Milan duo Alessandro Nesta and veteran Paulo Maldini. Protecting the back-four is Juventus shot-stopper Gianluigi Buffon.

Coach of the team is Porto's Jose Mourinho, who led his team to Uefa Cup success with a memorable victory over Glasgow Celtic in the final.

The poll was voted for by 1.5million football fans across the globe on Uefa's official web-site. The fact that the award was voted for by the public will only add to the honour for Van Nistelrooy, who had a terrific 2003. His goal scoring achievements were one of the main forces behind United's title success, and the Dutch striker, who also helped Holland to a place in the European Championship finals, has already netted 21 goals this season.

Uefa team of the year:

Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus)
Defence: Paulo Ferreira (Porto), Alessandro Nesta (AC Milan), Paolo Maldini (AC Milan), Roberto Carlos (Real Madrid)
Midfield: Luis Figo (Real Madrid), David Beckham (Real Madrid), Zinedine Zidane (Real Madrid), Pavel Nedved (Juventus)
Forwards: Thierry Henry (Arsenal), Ruud van Nistelrooy (Man Utd).
Coach: Jose Mourinho (Porto).

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