Kaizer Chiefs shot-stopper Daniel Akpeyi has won Nigerian Goalkeeper of the Year award.
The 33-year-old player won the accolade at the inaugural Ballers Awards ceremony which is a new initiative to recognize homegrown Nigerian talent.
The goalkeeper was unable to attend the awards ceremony in Victoria Island, but took to Instagram to accept the award.
“I want to thank you for nominating me to be the best goalkeeper of the year and I want to thank the organizers who made this possible,” said Akpeyi.
“Thank you for this prestigious award. It is quite unfortunate that I won’t be around to receive this award myself due to club engagements and I want to say well done to all the nominees, they have done extremely well in their personal Capacities and in their clubs and countries.
“Thank you to everyone who has belief in me, it is because of you that I have come this far and I promise to give my best.”
Akpeyi beat Omonia Nicosia keeper Francis Uzoho and El Kanemi Warriors shot-stopper Adamu Abubakar to the award.
Meanwhile, Itumeleng Khune who is now Amakhosi’s No.2, according to Middendorp sent messages of praise to his teammate Akpei.
“Congratulations on your Ballers Nigerian Goalkeeper of the Year award Bro Daniel Akpeyi, well deserved and keep up the great work. Healthy Competition,” read a tweet from Khune.
Akpei becoming Chiefs number one
Akpeyi was signed as an emergency goalkeeper from Chippa United in January 2019 as Chiefs struggled to win matches due to their thin goalkeeping department after Khune picked up another long term injury.
Following his string of solid performances, he became Amakhosi’s No.1.
Kaizer Chiefs next encounter
Chiefs will visit Black Leopards in a PSL match at Thohoyandou Stadium on Saturday.