Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric has received the award for the best Croatian player in 2016 present by Vecernji List.

It’s the fifth time that the Madrid midfielder has won this award after winning it in 2007, 2008, 2011 and 2014.

Modric beat Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic and Juventus striker Mario Mandzukic to claim the award after a great year in which he won the Champions League, the Club World Cup and European Super Cup with Madrid.

The 31-year-old says he feels honoured to have won this prestigious award for the fifth time and says he is grateful for those who voted for him.

‘It is a very special prize and I will continue to work hard to improve every day,’ Modric told the Real Madrid website.

‘This prize means a lot to me, it’s the fifth time I’ve received it and it’s very special for me because it has a great tradition. I want to thank those who voted for me.

‘I have to keep working hard and improving every day. I want to thank those who have helped me to win this award”, said the Croatian.’

Image: Real Madrid website