Nominees for FPAI Awards announced

Kolkata: Brazilian striker Edmar Figuera and Nigerian midfielder Ogba Kalu Nnanna were among those

nominated on Thursday for the `Fans Player of the Year 2010` by the Football Players` Association of India (FPAI). Also nominated were the Indian trio of Subrata Paul, Anthony Pereira and Mohammad Rafi with the award to go to the player securing the maximum number of votes at the FPAI Awards night to be held in New Delhi on September 12, a release quoting FPAI secretary Jehan Mehta said. The voting lines will remain open till September 10. Last year, India forward Sunil Chhetri pipped Mohun Bagan`s Brazilian striker Jose Ramirez Barreto for the award. AFC president Mohammed Bin Hammam is likely to be the chief guest at the FPAI Awards night. India`s number one goalkeeper Paul and Figuera were instrumental in Pune FC`s third-place finish in the I-League 2009-10. Kalu who played a key role in Churchill Brothers triumph in 2008-09, has switched allegiance to I-League holders Dempo SC. Up and coming Indian forward Rafi scored 14 goals for Mahindra United last season and is now with Churchill Brothers after his former club was disbanded. India winger Pereira, known for his pace and clinical crosses, is an integral member of the I-League champions Dempo. PTI