Former winners Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane have been joined by Thierry Henry in the nominations for this year's World Player of the Year award, FIFA says.

Brazil striker Ronaldo has received the accolade a record three times, in 1996, 1997 and 2002, while his Real Madrid team mate Zidane was the winner in 1998 and 2000.

Arsenal striker Henry, who plays alongside Zidane for France, is in the running for the first time after a year of prolific goal scoring for club and country, said UEFA on Wednesday.

The award, which is based on the votes of 142 coaches of national teams, will be made at the World Player Gala in Basle on December 15. Five other awards, including "Top Team", will also be handed out.