"Biggest honour of my career": Mahdavikia

"It's a great honour to win this award," said the Hamburg star. "There are so many top-quality players in Asia and to be considered the best among all of them is just incredible.

"I felt I played very well for Hamburg last season and I hope I can continue to play well for my club and my country.

"It's the biggest honour of my whole career," added the 26-year-old, who received his award at a gala event in Kuala Lumpur. "I had a dream to be the best player in Asia so my dream has come through. It's an honour for me, for my country, and my teammates.

"The award means that I have more responsibility to my club and the national team. People in Iran will expect more from me and I am happy to accept that responsibility."

Mahdavakia, who has been nicknamed the "King of the Golden Pass" , led the German Bundesliga in goal assists during the 2002/03 season and was also voted by Hamburg fans as their Player of the Year after helping his team to fourth place in the league and a spot in the UEFA Cup.

Despite being a firm fan favourite at Hamburg, the former Pirouzi player could be on the move when his contract expires in a month's time. While the Bundesliga side are keen to sign the Iranian star to a new contract, Mahdavakia is considering his options, having been approached by rival Bundesliga sides as well as English Premier League clubs.