The Togolese beat both Abou-Treika and Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien to the award, which was announced in the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) ceremony in Lagos, Nigeria.

“Abou-Treika definitely deserved to win the prize. He did a lot better than Adebayor in terms of both displays and achievements,” Hassan said.

“It’s very strange that Ahli and Egypt were chosen as the continent’s best, while both teams’ superstar wasn’t.” added the Ahli midfielder.

Ahli skipper Shadi Mohamed echoed Hassan’s words, adding that Abou-Treika was harshly done when not given the award.

“This is the second time CAF are unjust towards Abou-Treika. In 2006 he also should have won the award but he was overlooked,” said the Egypt defender.

“We ask the Egyptian FA to take action in order to find out on what bases CAF make their nominees and votes.”

Despite missing out on the award, Abou-Treika was named the Inter-CAF player of the year. An award given to the best African player plying his trade inside the continent.