LEIPZIG, Germany. Jan 27 — Who is one of the world's most popular players? Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi? No, so could it be a Polish player? Surprisingly yes reports IFFHS.

According to a recent IFFHS user vote "The World‘s most Popular Footballer amongst active Players in 2009 in 6 continents" Polish international Michal Zewlakow finished second in the vote for Europe, and fourth in the world.

Loyalty to a club over many years and a commitment to remain in the home country – often  turning down big money - are serious factors. Also modesty and restraint play a role. Consequently, this results in a great difference between the achievement-orientated top footballers (FIFA Players) and the most popular players (IFFHS user voting).

Europe‘s most popular footballer is the Turk Arda Turan. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder has, as captain, led Galatasaray SK to 10th place of the Club World Ranking. He also plays a dominant role in the Turkish national team and received 91,887 votes.

In second place was Michal Zewlakow, the 33-year-old captain and left full-back of the Polish national team who plays for Olimpiakos FC in Greece. He has already played more than 90 full "A" internationals.

In third spot was Andrey Arshavin (Arsenal FC), the speedy and tricky forward who is extremely dangerous in front of goal. The 28-year-old captain of the Russian national team was followed by his team mate, national goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev (CSKA Moscow), in 4th place.

World's most popular players of 2009 - IFFHS:
1. Carlos Alberto Pavon (Honduras/Real Espana) 195 182 votes
2. Arda Turan (Turkey/Galatasaray) 91 887
3. Mohamed Aboutreika (Egypt/Al-Ahly) 84 470
4. Michał Żewłakow (Poland/Olympiakos) 53 939
5. Juan Manuel Vargas (Peru/Fiorentina) 44 338

Find out more about the fourth annual IFFHS user vote on www.iffhs.de