Inter Milan star Romelu Lukaku has been backed to win the Ballon d'Or award this year.
Lukaku's return of 18 goals and seven assists has propelled Inter to the summit of the Serie A standings this season, where the Nerazzurri are currently six points clear of nearest rivals AC Milan in the race for the title.
The Belgium international has played a key role in turning Inter's fortunes around since joining the club from Manchester United last season and former club boss Alberto Zaccheroni believes he has done enough to be considered for the Ballon d'Or.
"I think it should be awarded to a player who shifts the balance, both technically and physically. These are the most important characteristics," Zaccheroni told Tuttosport h/t Football Italia.
"Honestly, I wouldn't be surprised if he [Lukaku] wins the Ballon d'Or. He's been doing extraordinary things since he joined Inter. In Italy, there isn't a player who shifts the balance as he does. Maybe the other one is Franck Kessié, he is unstoppable when he takes the ball and defends it."
Lukaku is two goals behind Cristiano Ronaldo in the race for this season's Capocannoniere – or Golden Boot – and his impressive form has put Inter in pole position to break Juventus' nine-year hold over the Serie A crown.
The last time the Milanese giants lifted the title was following the 2009/10 season, during which the club famously won the league, cup and UEFA Champions League during Jose Mourinho's reign as manager.
Scroll through the gallery below to see where Lukaku ranks among Serie A's highest-paid players