Though he's training in Germany with Bundesliga giant Bayern Munich, Landon Donovan is still getting recognition here in the United States. The 26-year-old was rewarded as the best American player in 2008 after receiving his record-breaking fifth Honda Player of the Year Award yesterday.
The Los Angeles Galaxy player received 297 points from journalists across the country, ahead of goalkeeper Tim Howard and forward Clint Dempsey who finished with 240 and 176 points respectively. Donovan also captured the Honda Award in 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2007.
Donovan had himself an impressive year by breaking the national team record for goals (currently 37), as well as leading the MLS in scoring this season (20 goals), yet many fans believed that 2008 was Tim Howard's year. The Everton goalkeeper also had himself a solid year for the National team by posting 5 shutouts in 9 games.
Yet Howard showed no hard feelings on losing out on the award and expressed his utmost respect for the United States all-time leading goal scorer.
“Landon is a presence,” Howard said by phone. “When you line up in the tunnel to go onto the field and you see Landon there, it gives you confidence.”
Donovan not only showed his gratitude for the award and the kind words he received, but he also spoke out on his 10-day training stint with Bayern Munich, expressing that he now has the confidence to compete in Europe.
"I'm a different player than I was then, competing for a spot," Donovan said. "While at the time it seemed like everything was against me, the reality was I just wasn't ready yet. Now I know I'm ready and want the chance to prove myself. In my mind, I just want to know if it's possible."
What is your take on Donovan winning his fifth Honda Award? Surprised that he won? Think Howard or Dempsey should've won it? Express your comments below.
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