Newly-crowned African Footballer of the Year Yaya Toure insists the award is a reward for his consistent performances for his country, according to supersport.com.
The Manchester City midfielder edged Nigeria’s Mikel Obi and countryman Didier Drogba to clinch his third straight title as the continent’s best footballer in a ceremony in Lagos on Thursday.
Speaking to Ghanaian radio station Citi FM after the ceremony, the versatile Ivory Coast player said delivering consistent performances for his country was behind his success.
“I think the award was given based on one’s work with his national team and we, the contenders were judged based on that,” Yaya was quoted as saying.
“A good national team showing is crucial for us. Of course, great club form is also important because it is never easy combining both things. Playing week-in, week-out at that level for Manchester City is very difficult.
“It has been one year since I won the last Player of the Year award so it is really challenging.”
The former Barcelona star was quick to share in the disappointment of Mikel in losing out after it was clear that Nigerians were all inching for the Chelsea midfielder to take the top award of the ceremony.
He said, “To be very honest with you, being touted as the favourite and not winning is really painful. I really feel for Mikel because he also deserved to win it. That said, I will just keep working hard and improving myself.”
