Boussoufa named as Belgium's finest
Thursday, January 20, 2011
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Moroccan international Mbark Boussoufa paid tribute to RSC Anderlecht team-mate and Golden Shoe runner-up Romelu Lukaku after being elected 2010 Belgian player of the year.
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Mbark Boussoufa has been named 2010 Belgian player of the year, beating RSC Anderlecht team-mate Romelu Lukaku in a poll of sports journalists, coaches, former players and dignitaries.
Amsterdam-born Moroccan international Boussoufa received the Golden Shoe from his national team coach Erik Gerets, the 1982 winner. In his acceptance speech Boussoufa called 17-year-old Lukaku, with whom he formed an attacking partnership that swept Anderlecht to their 30th league title in May, to stand alongside him.
"I call him on stage to join me, because he deserved this Golden Shoe just as much as me," said the 26-year-old, picking up the award for the second time having also won in 2006 when at KAA Gent. "I want to warmly congratulate him for his fantastic year." Boussoufa scored 19 goals in 2010, Lukaku 23.
Jelle Vossen, 21, finished third in the poll after an explosive start to the season that has brought him 16 goals in 19 league games for KRC Genk.
Other awards
Goal of the year – Wesley Sonck (K. Lierse SK v KRC Genk, 18 December 2010)
Best Belgian player abroad – Vincent Kompany (Manchester City FC)
Lifetime achievement award – Frank De Bleeckere (referee)
