No joy in Roy’s vote for Masch

THERE is one reason why strikers are paid more money than defenders in football – it is far more difficult to create than destroy.

So if you wanted a peek into the mindset of Roy Hodgson’s joyless footballing soul, it was there for all to see with his choice of Javier Mascherano for the Ballon d’Or.

Let’s look at the competition. Cristiano Ronaldo plays for one of the world’s biggest football clubs. Scores goals by the bucketful, demonstrating sublime skill in doing so. He also puts bums on seats and is a Champions League winner.

And his display against Sweden in the World Cup play-off sent Portugal to Brazil.

Lionel Messi (right) is a four-time Ballon d’Or winner, scores goals by the bucketful, demonstrating his sublime skill as he does so. He puts bums on seats and is a former Champions League winner.

Argentina would not have reached the World Cup final without Messi’s contribution. It doesn’t matter that they kept a clean sheet against Iran. It was the little striker’s goal that proved decisive. As it was against Bosnia.

So how can you overlook this pair at the peak of their powers, for a defensive shield – excellent though he is?

Possibly when you have forged your reputation on being organised and hard to beat, that’s why...