Busquets named as Catalan Footballer of the Year

The Spain midfielder has beaten the likes of Xavi, Carles Puyol and Victor Valdes to the award, which will be presented at the Stars of Catalan Football gala on March 4

Barcelona star Sergio Busquets has been named as Catalan Footballer of the Year for 2012.

The 24-year-old has beaten the likes of Blaugrana team-mates Carles Puyol, Victor Valdes and last year's winner Xavi to claim the prize at the Stars of Catalan Football gala.

The award, which is voted for by both football clubs and the general public, is given to the most deserving candidate from the region, and forms part of the larger ceremony held at the old Estrella Damm brewery.

Among others, awards are also presented for best coach and best referee, while the stand-out stars of professional futsal are also acknowledged.

Busquets has enjoyed a memorable 12 months for club and country, as he played a pivotal role in both Barcelona's Copa del Rey triumph as well as Spain's historic victory at Euro 2012.

Wigan Athletic coach Roberto Martinez has been named as Coach of the Year, while Blaugrana youngster Sergi Roberto has won the Most Promising Player accolade.