You have elected Mamadou Niang Olympian of the season 2009-10. With 28% of the 60.000 votes, he comes in ahead of Lucho and Souley Diawara. Here is an interview with the Senegalese striker.
Mamadou Niang wins at the tape. With his sprinters build, it seems simply natural. 400 votes of the 60.000 cast separated him from Lucho, the duel was tough but the Senegalese player has been elected Olympian of the season 2009-10 by the readers of OM.net, a victory that cannot be contested. Who deserved the accolade more than the captain, top goal scorer in the league and for the club over the last ten months? This is the consecration of five seasons of loyal service at OM, all of it capped off with the double Ligue 1/Coupe de la Ligue.
An integral part of the renewal of the club over the last few seasons, a hard worker who has become over the course of time one of the top strikers in the league, he can savor the fruit of his work. On the day after a match in Denmark with his country and before a well deserved holiday, he confided in us his joy at being distinguished by the supporters.
Mamad’, you have been voted OM player of the year by the readers of OM.net, what is your first reaction?
I’m surprised and very happy. I’ve been at Marseille for five years now and this is the first time I have received the distinction. It is a form of recognition which is important for me.
Why are you surprised?
Because we all put in a fantastic season. Whether it be me or my team-mates, each guy in his position. So yes I am surprised, but delighted to be elected the OM player of the season.
Was this your best season since your arrival at OM in 2005?
On a statistical level, yes. We won two titles (Champions and winners of the Coupe de la Ligue), I was top scorer, I put away my 100th goal with OM. So, since my arrival at Marseille, I do think it is my best season!
Do you want to say anything to the readers of the site who elected you?
There’s a lot I’d like to say to them. If I am where I am and receive all of these rewards, it is in big part down to the supporters. Even if I had some tough times at the start of my OM career, they have always been behind me. When I’m walking in the street, the supporters always have nice things to say to me. I’d like to thank them from the bottom of my heart. I’m delighted.
On Thursday you played with your national side, know it is time for vacation …
Yes! I’m finally going to have time for a rest and count on me I am going to take full advantage of my holidays!
