Al Ain talisman Asamoah Gyan for the second time in a row denied the UAE Arabian Gulf League Foreign Player of the Year despite an incredible season.
Brazilian Grafite, who plays for Al Ahli, beat Gyan, who was top scorer in the top flight with his 29 goals despite his team finishing sixth, to the prestigious prize.
Gyan decided to absent himself from the awards ceremony cost him the coveted award.
His award as top scorer of the league was not given out because he was not at the ceremony.
Last year, the Ghana captain was denied the same award after failing to be at the function due to the Black Stars World Cup qualifiers against Sudan and Lesotho.
The award was presented to Grafite and after winning it for a second time in a row, he thanked his teammates for the achievement.
“What we have done this season is really special. We have a quality side and I’m very happy to be here,†Grafite said.
“I would like to thank my teammates, my coach and the coaching staff because without them, I wouldn’t have been able to win this. My name is on it, but this trophy is for everybody for helping me every day at the club.
“I remember my first year here three years ago and some journalist asked me if I had really come here to play football or to enjoy life?
“I answered I don’t know what you think about enjoying life, but I have come here to play football and prove to everybody that I have come here for that reason. This will prove it.â€
Gyan has a personal score to settle with the former Wolfsburg striker when they meet on Sunday in the final of the President’s Cup.