Berlin: Germany's Lukas Podolski was named FIFA's inaugural Gillette Best Young Player at the World Cup on Friday.
The 21-year-old forward made his mark in the tournament, scoring three goals in Germany's run to the semi-finals.
After uninspired performances in the hosts's first two games when he missed a number of good chances, Podolski was on target in the 3-0 win over Ecuador and then scored twice in the 2-0 second round victory over Sweden.
He also scored his penalty in the quarter-final shootout win over Argentina.
Considered the great hope of German football, Podolski has strength, pace and a lethal shot. Next season he will play for champions Bayern Munich after moving from Cologne.
The FIFA award is based on a fans poll - more than one million votes were received - and the selections from the FIFA technical study group.
Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, Ecuador's Luis Valencia, Lionel Messi of Argentina, Tranquilo Barnetta of Switzerland and Spain's Cesc Fabregas were also shortlisted.
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