Oshoala in five-man BBC Women Footballer of the Year shortlist

Asisat Oshoala Super Falcon’s striker has been shortlisted for the inaugural 2015 BBC Women footballer of the Year award.

According to an announcement by the BBC World Service, Asisat is the only African shortlisted for the award, others being Spain’s Verónica Boquete, German Nadine Kessler, Kim Little of Scotland and Marta of Brazil.

A panel of experts – including administrators, journalists, coaches and former players – decided the shortlist.

The reigning African Woman Footballer of the Year who plays for Liverpool Ladies of England is nominated following her commendable performance at the 2014 U20 Women’s World Cup in Canada and the 2014 Africa Women Championship in Namibia, as well as her contributions to the double domestic title win of Rivers Angels.

“I worked hard last year but I am surprised to be nominated and I feel very appreciated. This award is a very good thing for women’s football. It can really help us by encouraging other countries to support their ladies more and treat them the same way they treat the men,” Oshoala said.

Asisat has scored two goals and made several assists since joining the reigning English Women Super League champions in January.

The winner will be decided by the votes of fans, which will run until Monday, May 11.

Fans can vote online through the BBC website or by SMS.

To vote for BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2015 by SMS, fans can text the number of their preferred player to vote for to +44 7786 20 20 04 in this order: Veronica Boquete (1), Nadine Kessler (2), Kim Little (3), Marta (4) and “5 ” for Asisat Oshoala.

The winner will be announced on Tuesday, May 26 in a live radio broadcast.