Andres Iniesta won the "European Player of the Year" award in 2012.

With a narrow victory over his Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi and Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo, midfielder Andres Iniesta won the "European Player of the Year" award in 2012.

Iniesta receives the award from UEFA president Michel Platini - Photo Getty

In a poll of 53 journalists representing 53 UEFA member federations, Iniesta received 19 votes, just two more than the 17 votes each Messi and Ronaldo received. Despite receiving 17 votes each, Messi was ranked higher than Ronaldo by UEFA this year. This result demonstrates the fierce competition this year, as Iniesta, Ronaldo, and Messi all possess their own strengths. Last year, in the inaugural "European Player of the Year" award, Messi won convincingly, far ahead of Xavi and Ronaldo. The Argentine striker received 39 votes, overwhelmingly more than Xavi (11 votes) and Ronaldo (3 votes).

In the 2011/12 season, Iniesta had an unsuccessful season at club level, with his Barcelona team only winning the Copa del Rey. However, at the national team level, Iniesta shone brightly at EURO 2012, helping Spain become the first team to successfully defend their European Championship title. Spain is also the only team to ever win three consecutive major tournaments. Iniesta himself was voted "Best Player of EURO 2012". Therefore, in every respect, Iniesta deserved the title of "Best Player in Europe" in 2012, even though Messi and Ronaldo were also very deserving.

Gavin Hamilton, a journalist for World Soccer representing England, voted for Iniesta. He said the following about the Spanish football hero:"I voted for Iniesta. He had a fantastic performance at EURO 2012 to help Spain win the title. Besides being a great talent, Iniesta is also very humble. His behavior on and off the pitch is exemplary - a true role model for others to follow."

According to Thethaovanhoa - DT