Germany and Real Madrid maestro Toni Kroos is one of the best midfielders in the world, his ability to spray pin point passes and control the game, makes him an indisputable figure in the team. The midfielder pointed out in a recent interview that the FIFA under 17 World Cup played an important part in his life, which helped him develop into a better footballer.

Kroos was part of the German side that finished third at the 2007 U-17 World Cup in South Korea, he won the Golden Ball (Player of the tournament) and the Bronze Boot for being the third highest scorer in the competition.

 "It was one of the most important events in my development as a footballer, you play football to achieve something with your team, not just as an individual, I knew I had a good tournament but I was overwhelmed when I received that award. I was totally happy with the fact we'd won a medal in Korea. The individual award was simply a consequence of what the team accomplished," the 27-year-old told FIFA.

Kroos further added that playing with the best players at that age group, where your every move is observed, provides motivation to reach the next level. The 27-year-old stressed on the fact that footballer has to work very hard and be focused every time from the very beginning.