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Thomas Partey named Ghana Player of the Year

Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey has been named Ghana Player of the Year, having been unveiled as the winner at the inaugural Ghana Football Awards.

The ceremony, which took place at the Marriott Hotel in Accra, celebrated the 25-year-old as the outstanding Ghanaian individual in the world game following an exceptional campaign in Spain.

He saw off competition from fellow nominees Jordan Ayew and Albert Adomah to clinch the award.

The 2017-18 season was something of a breakout year for Partey, who stepped into a key role in Diego Simeone's side, making 50 appearances.

He also netted five goals, including key strikes against Deportivo La Coruna and Qarabag, and also featured at right-back when required.

With Atleti midfielder Gabi joining Al-Sadd earlier this window, Partey appears set to play an even more pivotal role in Simeone's plans moving forward.

Perhaps the highlight of his campaign came during Ghana's ill-fated World Cup qualifying campaign, when he netted a hat-trick in a 5-1 victory over Congo-Brazzaville.

It was the first time a Ghana international had netted three times in a match for the Black Stars since Jordan in 2014.

In the other awards. Yusif Abubakar and Joseph Addo of Aduana Stars were named Coach and Goalkeeper of the Year respectively.

Ex-WAFA midfielder Majeed Ashimeru won the Future Star of the Year award, while Joseph Mensah of AC Horsens was honoured with the Goal of the Year award.

Princella Adubea of Black Princesses won the Women's Footballer of the Year award.