Who is the best soccer player ever?

According to FIFA's annual World Player of the Year award, Cristiano Ronaldo is currently the world's best soccer player, with Lionel Messi and Fernando Torres ranked 2nd and 3rd.

It is however a matter of personal opinion as many variables play into the selection. Some say it's Ronaldinho, others say it's Messi.

Most fans often only think of the front half of the soccer pitch when considering this current "Best" question. When evaluating, and considering some of the above variables, such as the ability to do ALL things on the field for a team (BOTH Offense AND Defensive support especially) not many currently succeed game in, and game out like Ghana and Chelsea's Michael Essien - a true Complete Footballer.