VALENCIA: Antoine Griezmann was named La Liga player of the season for 2015/16 on Monday, ahead of the likes of star duo Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Atletico Madrid forward was announced as the winner in a ceremony organised by La Liga in Valencia. The Frenchman was not at the ceremony.

Atletico’s Diego Simeone also took the coach of the season award while Barcelona’s Uruguay striker Luis Suarez was named the top non-EU player.

Curiously, though, Barca’s Argentina international Messi was recognised as the best forward.

Atletico dominated the awards as Jan Oblak was best goalkeeper, Diego Godin top defender and Frenchman Griezmann also claimed the fans’ award.

Real Madrid weren’t left empty-handed, though, as Luka Modric was named best midfielder.

Team captains voted for the top players in each position, while a data-analysis system generated the best player award.

Published in Dawn October 26th, 2016