Riyad Mahrez is the man of the moment as he has been crowned the BBC African Footballer of the Year 2016.
Mahrez said “It means a lot, it’s something big for African players so I am very happy, I am very proud. It’s always good to receive awards and for African players it’s a huge honour. To all the fans, thank you very much.” He added: “Also I want to thank the Algeria fans and dedicate this to them as well and for my family. I just have to carry on and keep going with my football and see what I can do.”
He has been a driving force in Leicester City’s shock title triumph, scoring 17 goals and providing 11 assists as the Foxes pulled off what had been a 5,000-1 shot before the season. Leicester manager Claudio Ranieiri was in attendance as Mahrez received his award and paid tribute to the winger. “I want to see him continue as a fantastic player. It’s very important for us, for the team. He is improving every day,” he said.
