Tasnim - Former Iran and Persepolis midfielder Ali Karimi was chosen as Iran’s most popular player over the past two decades, according to polls conducted by an Iranian television station on Monday night.

Karimi finished in first place, winning 52 percent of the votes in the three-candidate race.

Former Esteghlal striker Farhad Majidi came in second place with 33 percent and ex-Iran striker Khodadad Azizi finished third with 15 percent.

Karimi, who has also played for Bayern Munich and Schalke 04, was known for his amazing dribbling skills.

He was arguably one of Iran’s all-time best players and was often referred to as the Asian Maradona.