Riyad Mahrez is crowned BBC African Footballer of The Year

Sarah Ojo

Algerian soccer star, Riyad Mahrez has been crowned BBC Footballer Of The Year. The player who played a huge role in Leicester City's fairytale title winning campaign last season beat off competition from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Andre Ayew, Sadio Mane and Yaya Toure to scoop the award. Winger Mahrez, 25, told BBC Sport: "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