REAL MADRID’S LUKA MODRIC received the accolade of Uefa player of the year in Monaco after his Champions League exploits helped the Spanish club to a 13th European crown.
“My father always pushed me to fight for my dreams, I owe him a lot for everything,” said Modric, whose performances helped Real to a third straight European crown and then propelled Croatia to the World Cup final.
“It’s incredible moment for me, I feel really excited and proud of this great award.”
Modric, whose success sets him up as a favourite to win the Ballon d’Or world player of the year accolade, saw off former Real team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo and Liverpool’s Egyptian striker Mohamed Salah for the overall award.
Real Madrid’s achievement in winning the Champions League for the third season running was further recognised as Modric also won the Uefa award for the best midfielder of last season.
His clubmate Sergio Ramos was named best defender while Real shot stopper Keylor Navas won the best goalkeeper prize.
Ronaldo, who did not appear at the ceremony, was awarded the award for best striker chosen by Champions League and Europa League coaches from last season and journalists.
Danish international Pernille Harder, of German club Wolfsburg, won the Uefa women’s player of the year prize.
Wolfsburg lost to dominant French outfit Lyon in the Champions League final in Kiev in May.
There was also an award for David Beckham, the former Manchester United, Real Madrid and England star collecting the Uefa President’s Award for his achievements in the game and his work since retiring as a player.
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