Ljungberg wins top Swedish prize
Ljungberg collected the 'Guldbollen' prize at an awards ceremony on Monday night.
The marauding Gunner was instrumental in helping Arsenal to the domestic double last season and was also a key figure in Sweden's World Cup campaign.
Though he missed the start of the current term through injury, Ljungberg has returned fighting fit and was honoured to receive the award.
"I am truly proud," gushed Ljungberg. "It is a gang of terrific footballers who have won the award in the past and when you are growing up, you never think you will be even considered."
The dampener on Ljungberg's big night was the news that he will be forced to miss Sweden's midweek friendly against Czech Republic with a knee injury.
He added: "They (doctors) have examined my left knee and stated that I can't play. I got badly stamped on on Saturday and was bleeding and in pain.
"I have to take it easy for a few days."
Other winners at the awards ceremony were Celtic duo Johan Mjallby and Henrik Larsson, who were Defender and Striker of the Year respectively, while charismatic Ajax attacker Zlatan Ibrahimovic was named Personality of the Year.
Full Prize List:
Guldbollen (Golden Ball): Freddie Ljungberg (Arsenal)
Keeper of the Year: Andreas Isaksson (Djurgardens)
Defender of the Year: Johan Mjallby (Celtic)
Midfielder of the Year: Ljungberg
Striker of the Year: Henrik Larsson (Celtic)
Coach of the Year: Soren Akeby and Zoran Lukic (Djurgardens)
Personality of the Year: Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Ajax)
Goal of the Year: Daniel Majstorovic (Malmo)
