Indian international and Mohun Bagan AC star Syed Rahim Nabi has been voted the AIFF Player of the Year 2012. All India Football Federation (AIFF) President Praful Patel made the announcement during the AIFF Annual General Body Meeting on Thursday.
The 27 year old allrounder won the voting conducted among all the I-League club coaches until December 14 and the award marks a postive end to the year 2012 for the Mohun Bagan player, who suffered a major head injury during the Kolkata Derby a several days ago.
“Nabi has been a pillar of strength in the national team for long. I wish him success in his future endeavours,” AIFF President Praful Patel congratulated the Indian international.
AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das also lauded the AIFF Player of the Year 2012: “Nabi is a versatile player. His commitment as a player is exemplary. He is a deserving recipient of the award.”
“I congratulate Rahim Nabi on being chosen the winner by the various I-League club coaches. I wish him all the best for the future and wish him a speedy recovery,” Indian national team coach Wim Koevermans said.
Nabi made his debut for India on November 17, 2004 against Oman in a 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Muscat and he has represented the national team in 61 matches while scoring six goals.
The “Mr. Versatile” of Indian football joins a list of illustrious players like I.M. Vijayan, Jo Paul Ancheri, Bruno Coutinho, Baichung Bhutia and others who have won the award since its introduction in 1992.