5 footballers most likely to win 2017 CAF Player of the Year award

It is October - November when football stars, country associations and clubs are all awaiting the list of nominees for the African player of the year. For African players, this is the greatest achievement as their chances of winning other continental awards are slim.

However, some players are sure to be on the list and also have a better chance of being shortlisted to the final five players from which the three best would be selected.

The first prediction about the possible winner of this year’s award was done by Nwankwo Kanu, a former Super Eagles star and African Player of the Year in 1996 and 1999. He stated that Victor Moses of Nigeria was best positioned to be the 2017 CAF Player of the Year.

For us, these are the five African football players who are better placed to win the continental award this year.

1. Victor Moses (Chelsea) – Nigeria

Victor Moses currently plays for Chelsea FC in the English Premier League. In 2016/2017 season, he won the English Premier League trophy with the London team, playing a key role throughout the season.

He is also a main force in the Super Eagles team. Former Super Eagles forward, Nkankwo Kanu said about the player's chances of win the award, "Moses was able to prove critics wrong. Despite their negative predictions, Moses was fantastic this season. He also had better chances to prove himself compared to other players in Chelsea."

2. Sadio Mane (Liverpool) – Senegal

Sadio Mane also plays in the English Premier League for Liverpool Football Club. He is also a strong forward for the Senegalese national team and a great tormentor for the opponent''s defence.

According to Nkwanko Kanu, “the most dangerous competitors for Moses will be Sadio Mane and Aubamayang.”

“These two football players also showed brilliance in their respective teams. Therefore, Moses will get quite the challenge when he decides to fight for CAF African player of the year.”

3. Mohamed Salah (Roma) – Egypt

Mohammed Salah was the top scorer for Serie A team, FC Roma before earning his big money move to Liverpool where he has continued his great form,winning player of the month as well.

4. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Borussia Dortmund) – Gabon

Aubameyang is another player considered a favourite for the 2016/2017 Player of the Year award. He has enjoyed an influential scoring streak for both club and country.

His performance last season was superb, winning the top goal scorer gong in the Bundesliga. He has already scored 11 goals in the new season.

5. Naby Keita (RB Leipzig)

Guinea's best player since Aboubacar Titi Camara has already broken the record to become the most expensive African transfer of all time after agreeing to join Liverpool next season.

The dimunitive midfielder was the heartbeat for his German side as they placed second in their first year in the Bundesliga. He has continued this season .