Source: Liverpool_Echo
Liverpool duo Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres so proud of FIFA World XI spot
FERNANDO TORRES and Steven Gerrard have revealed their pride at being named in the FIFA/FIFPro World XI for 2009.[LNB]The Liverpool pair were included in the line-up after more than 50,000 professional footballers from across the globe voted for the best player in each position.[LNB]Torres and Gerrard attended the glittering awards gala in Zurich where the top honour of FIFA World Player of the Year went to Barcelona's Lionel Messi.[LNB]'It's a real source of joy and satisfaction as well a privilege to be in this XI,' said Torres.[LNB]'All of us players try to reach the top and achieve our goals, and receiving this kind of recognition from your fellow professionals is something else, it fills you with pride.[LNB]'I want to keep battling to make sure I come back here.[LNB]'What's more, this year I've made it without even winning a title. What I mean is, though collectively we've not had the best of luck, on a personal note the balance is right and I'm doing my job well.'[LNB]Gerrard added: 'I feel really flattered and honoured because it's really special to be voted for by your colleagues.'[LNB]There were three other Premier League-based stars in the World XI with Chelsea's John Terry joined by Manchester United duo Nemanja Vidic and Patrice Evra.[LNB]Terry has high hopes of getting his hands on the World Cup next summer, but the England skipper played down talk of Fabio Capello's side being out of the favourites.[LNB]The defender insists the competition in South Africa will be wide open.
