Ibrahimović honoured again in France

Paris Saint-Germain forward Zlatan Ibrahimović has been named Ligue 1 player of the year for the second consecutive season by his peers on a successful night for the capital club at the Trophées UNFP ceremony.

Scorer of 25 goals in France's top flight this term, Ibrahimović was shortlisted for the award along with team-mates Thiago Motta and Thiago Silva, plus AS Monaco FC forward James Rodríguez. "For the second time in a row, it's a great honour for me," said the Sweden captain. "Thank you to the players, the staff, the coach and the club.

"I think I've been playing my best season," he added, having also helped Paris reach the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League with ten strikes. "I hope it continues next season. I think I can still improve. We'll have more experience in the Champions League and hopefully we'll get closer."

Ibrahimović also picked up the prize for best goal for a trademark acrobatic effort past SC Bastia goalkeeper Mickaël Landreau last October. Landreau was honoured as well as he prepares to retire at the end of the season, having made a French record 617 appearances in the top flight.

Paris midfielder Marco Verratti was named young player of the year, while FCF Juvisy Essonne and France forward Gaëtane Thiney collected her second award as best female player and LOSC Lille's René Girard was crowned as best coach.