Extensive changes to Asian Player of the Year award

GOAL – KUALA LUMPUR, In their first meeting of the year in Kuala Lumpur, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Executive Committee announced sweeping changes to their much-maligned AFC Player of the Year award.

The award, meant to recognise Asia’s best footballer, has come under criticism in recent years for the requirement that nominees be present at the November award ceremony in order to be eligible to win. With many Asian leagues reaching their climax and European leagues in full swing, players widely considered to be the continent’s best have often been unable to attend.

While that rule will remain in place, the committee agreed to review the current November date and shift it to a suitable month in the following year, presumably when more players will be able to make time for the gala.

In an effort to recognise players in both domestic and foreign leagues, the single award will become three with plaudits given to the Best Asian Player in Asia, Best Asian Player in a Foreign Club, and Best Foreign Player in Asia. The AFC will also continue to run their Women’s Player of the Year.

In addition to the Player of the Year awards, subjects such as Indonesia’s controversial PSSI and increased cooperation with Uefa were also discussed.