Lothar Matthäus: My team of 2014

Captain of the last Germany team to win the FIFA World Cup before the 2014 vintage, Lothar Matthäus has named a formidable-looking lineup for his UEFA.com users' Team of the Year 2014.

Matthäus has included three of the Germany squad that triumphed in Brazil this summer, as well as a strong core of UEFA Champions League-winning Real Madrid CF players.

View Matthäus's choices below and submit your own selection before the 6 January deadline.

Vote for your Team of the Year 2014

Manuel Neuer: There isn't a Team of the Year without Neuer – he truly is the No1 in the world, no ifs or buts.

Philipp Lahm: The World Cup in Brazil once again showed what extraordinary qualities Philipp Lahm possesses. He was rewarded for his world-class performances with the trophy.

Sergio Ramos: The Spaniard oozes ambition and desire. Ramos is a leader, he always wants to win and he shows that on the pitch. With his aerial ability, he's always good for a goal from set pieces too. A player with passion.

Diego Godín: The Uruguayan is a real tough cookie. He is a reliable centre-back who also scored important goals for Atlético in 2014.

David Alaba: Alaba is the go-to guy at left-back. He has developed even more under [Josep] Guardiola, which is also benefiting the players in front of him; he is providing them with even better service.

Xabi Alonso: Whoever wasn't aware of Alonso before, has certainly found out just how good he is since his move to FCB. The 33-year-old stands out because of his tactical prowess, first-rate passing and wonderful eye for the game. He's never been more valuable than he is today.

Toni Kroos: He arrived at Real as a world champion, and that's exactly how he's playing there. He mixes up the pace, always stays composed and his assuredness on the ball is unmatched. Plus, he'll get even better.

Arjen Robben: He is the most prolific right-winger around. Everyone knows the runs that he'll make, yet hardly anyone can stop him. He's a real weapon in attack.

Lionel Messi: The Argentinian remains a player with extraordinary ability. He's now breaking all the records in the Spanish league and the UEFA Champions League and he's still only 27. He's out of this world.

Cristiano Ronaldo: The Portuguese forward belongs in every first XI. He's quick, he's deadly and he's incisive. Ronaldo is good – full stop.

Neymar: The Barcelona forward impresses me with how he still produces great performances despite the pressures of being a superstar. His acceleration is first class, coupled with brilliant agility and ball skills – all at only 22.

Lothar Matthäus was talking to Axel Ruppert.