Hazard honoured as French player of the season

LOSC Lille Métropole forward Eden Hazard has been voted France's player of the season by his peers for the second year running.

Having starred in Les Dogues' domestic double triumph in 2010/11, the 21-year-old has excelled once more, finding the net 17 times while contributing a league-high 14 assists. On accepting his award, the diminutive Belgian paid homage to his team-mates. "Without your team you are nothing," he said. "I am grateful to them."

With a host of clubs casting an eye over Hazard this summer, he also speculated that his future could lie elsewhere after five dazzling years in France. Ligue 1 leaders Montpellier Hérault SC were also recognised for their achievements. René Girard was voted Coach of the Season, while Moroccan international attacking midfielder Younès Belhanda, 22, scooped the award for Young Player of the Season as well as the prize for the best goal.