Ilija Najdoski: My team of 2014

A European Champion Clubs' Cup winner in 1991 with FK Crvena zvezda, Ilija Najdoski knows what it takes to conquer Europe so it is no surprise that three members of Real Madrid CF's UEFA Champions League-winning side make the former Yugoslavia and FYR Macedonia full-back's team of 2014.

Opting for a 4-3-3 system, Najdoski relies heavily on Germany's 2014 FIFA World Cup heroes – five of whom are picked – while Arjen Robben and Lionel Messi's excellent seasons at club and international levels ensure they get the nod from the former FK Vardar, Real Valladolid CF and PFC CSKA Sofia man.

View Najdoski's choices below and submit your own selection before 13.00CET on Tuesday 6 January.

Vote for your Team of the Year 2014

Manuel Neuer: He confirmed his status as the world's best goalkeeper by making a huge contribution to Germany's World Cup triumph in Brazil. A complete keeper recognised for finding intelligent solutions on the pitch.

Philipp Lahm: An outstanding player with a great work ethic, Lahm in my opinion is the key factor in the quality of Bayern München's football.

Sergio Ramos: One of the main instigators of Real Madrid's play, not just as a player but also as a motivator with huge positive energy. He is the prototype of the modern defensive player with incredible movement and anticipation.

Mats Hummels: One of the best defenders in the Bundesliga and in Europe. He played a big part in Germany's World Cup success this past summer.

David Alaba: Fast, strong in one-on-one situations and extremely useful in the back line. You can see big improvements in every aspect of Alaba's game compared with last year.

Arjen Robben: An incredibly technically gifted player with bags of confidence. Not only that, his style of play is enjoyable to watch and, more importantly, it brings excellent results on the pitch.

Toni Kroos: He showed his great potential during the World Cup tournament – and this was followed by a big-money transfer to Real Madrid.

Ángel Di María: He won the UEFA Champions League with Madrid and was among the most important players in taking Argentina to the World Cup final. He enjoyed a memorable season in which he scored lots of crucial goals.

Thomas Müller: He is a player born to compete in big matches: cunning, versatile and crafty. Germany and Bayern are incredibly lucky to have a player of Müller's calibre.

Cristiano Ronaldo: The Portuguese forward is one of the best I have ever seen.

Lionel Messi: There is no need to say much about Messi. He is an amazing player, one of the greatest in the history of the game.

Ilija Najdoski was talking to Emil Gasevski.