Cristiano Ronaldo named Portugal's player of year for Euro 2016 triumph
Tuesday 21 March 2017 09:53, UK
Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has been named Portugal's player of the year for 2016 after leading his country to Euro 2016 glory.
The Real Madrid star beat team-mate Pepe and Sporting Lisbon goalkeeper Rui Patricio to scoop the award at the prestigious Gala Quinas de Ouro in Lisbon.
Ronaldo captained Portugal to their first major title in France last summer, despite being forced off in the first half of the 1-0 extra-time win over the hosts through injury.
He had earlier led Real to Champions League glory, netting the decisive penalty in the final against Atletico Madrid, as well as scoring 16 times en route to the decider to become the competition's top scorer.
Ronaldo, who has already won the Ballon d'Or and the FIFA Best award for his contributions to the game last year, said at the ceremony. "It was a very special year for me because the Euros was the only trophy I was still missing.
"I want to thank the Portuguese people again; they gave us confidence on our way to the title."
Bayern Munich youngster Renato Sanches was voted young player of the year, while national team coach Fernando Santos lifted the coach of the year award.
