Manuel Neuer (front c.) didn't miss a minute as Germany claimed the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil
Manuel Neuer (front c.) didn't miss a minute as Germany claimed the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil

Neuer retains World’s Best Goalkeeper crown

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Cologne - Germany’s World Cup-winning No1 Manuel Neuer has been named the world’s best goalkeeper for a second straight year by the International Football Federation of History and Statistics (IFFHS).

The 28-year-old, who conceded just 40 times in 62 appearances in all competitions during 2014, collected 216 of a possible 538 points to beat Chelsea FC keeper Thibaut Courtois (96) and Keylor Navas (46) of Real Madrid CF to the award voted for by editorial staff and experts from 60 countries.

Neuer played a pivotal role as part of Germany’s World Cup-winning squad in Brazil, collecting the Golden Glove award in recognition for his efforts, having already clinched a domestic double with FC Bayern München. The record titleholders revolutionary sweeper keeper is still in the running for the 2014 FIFA Ballon d’Or and on the shortlist for the goalkeepers' position in the 2014 FIFPro World XI, both of which will be announced at the official ceremony in Zurich on 12 January.