体坛英语新闻：Zenit midfielder Shirokov named Russian Footballer of the Year

ST. PETERSBURG, Dec. 26 (Xinhua) -- Zenit St. Petersburg midfielder Roman Shirokov has been named Footballer of the Year for the second year in a row by Russia's Football magazine.

Shirokov beat out Zenit teammate Hulk and Dynamo Moscow's Alexander Kokorin for the top honour.

Over 250 journalists took part in voting for this year's winner, with players from the Russian Premier League as well as Russian nationals playing abroad eligible for selection.

The Football magazine award dates back to 1964, and is regarded as one of the most prestigious awards in Russian football.

"Last year it was a mixture of surprise and joy," Shirokov told local media. "This year, just joy."