Yaya Toure
Champions League winner Didier Drogba has expressed happiness over Yahaya Toure’s retention of the African footballer of the year title.
In a post event press conference at the State House in Accra a few days ago, the former Chelsea forward described his fellow countryman’s feat as no mean achievement, and that it was good for their country (Cote d’Ivoire).
Drogba believed Toure’s achievement would serve as a shining example to the many youth who had chosen sports and soccer in particular as a career.
“I am happy for Yahaya. It shows the steady growth of football in Cote d’Ivoire. It is good for Cote d’Ivoire, it will make kids and youth in Cote d’Ivoire believe in their dreams,” Drogba said.
The Shanghai Shenhua striker demonstrated no sign of disappointment over his failure to take the crown for the third time, explaining, “I didn’t play most matches at the beginning of the season, I am not disappointed. I am proud of Yahaya.”
Meanwhile, the African footballer of the year Yahaya Toure has described the feat as special, saying, “Winning it for the second time running makes it more special. It means I have to work harder in the coming seasons. I am excited.
“We will go far in the forthcoming Nations Cup in South Africa. With my captain here and the rest of the team, we will do well despite the stiff opposition insha Allah.”
Yahaya, last season’s EPL and FA Cup winner, was shortlisted with Drogba and Cameroun’s Alex Song for the Glo-CAF flagship award held at the Banquet Hall of the State House on Thursday.
By Kofi Owusu Aduonum
