Senegalese striker, Mame Biram Diouf, 26, was today named Africa’s Player of the Month of August in the English Premier League. The Senegalese striker, who plays his football for Stoke City edged a fierce contest of votes to win the maiden award, organised by New African Soccer.

The shortlist of three, which included Emmanuel Adebayor of Tottenham, Wilfied Bony of Swansea City and Diouf was closely contested as African readers and followers could not separate the trio. Adebayor was rated high for his performances against Queens Park Rangers and West Ham United, where he netted one goal and provided an assist. He therefore got a significant number of votes.

However, it was the magnitude of the feat performed by Diouf and his Stoke team mates that edged it for Diouf.

The August Man of the Month has played in all three Stoke City games and pulled off a great solo run to score the only goal of a shock triumph at the backyard of champions Manchester City.

Diouf will be presented with his award upon his return from international duty.

The English Premier League’s African Player of the Month awards was introduced this season by New African Soccer to promote awareness and celebrate Africans in the UK as well as inspire younger ones who aspire to excel in football as well.

The awards are given based on votes by followers of the New African Soccer web portals and social media platforms.

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