Gervinho delighted to be amongst Caf nominees

The Ivorian is on the shortlist alongside four other representatives of the Premier League and a former team-mate.

In total, 10 players have been nominated. These are Yaya Toure, Didier Drogba,  Adel Taarabt, Asamoah Gyan, Gervinho's former team-mate at Lille Moussa Sow, Andre Ayew, Kevin-Prince Boateng, Samuel Eto'o and Seydou Keita.

To him, winning the award will be a coronation of his hard work these past years: “It would mean a lot. Every African player dreams of winning this award. I was choked to learn I got shortlisted for that award," he told his club's website.
 
“There are so many good players in Africa that it’s a pleasure just to know I am among the 10 best players.
 
“If I am fortunate enough to win it I will be very happy, even more so at my young age. If I don’t win this trophy I will still be happy to be one of the ten best players of the year.”

The striker is expected to make the Elephants final squad for the Afcon in January where he equally hopes to have a brilliant tournament.
 
“It has always been like that. It is always difficult to leave your mates and your club in the middle of the season for another competition.
 
“I am doing it for my country so it is not in vain. It is always a great pleasure to fight for your own country.”