Lagos, Jan 10 (IANS)

 Ivoirian and Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure was crowned the Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) Best Player of the Year 2013 for the third consecutive time at an Awards Gala held here.

"I am happy winning this award," Toure said.

Toure beat Nigerian Mikel Obi and fellow Ivorian Didier Drogba to win the popular prize to honour African men and women who have excelled and contributed to the development of football in and outside the African continent, Xinhua reported.

The three players received the Golden, Silver and Bronze trophies respectively.

The 30-year-old midfielder played an immense part in helping Manchester City win their first domestic championship in 44 years.

The CAF award is bestowed purely on merit for exemplary contributions toward the development and promotion of football on and off the pitch.

By:IANS