FC Zenit St Petersburg dominated the Football Union of Russia`s end-of-season awards, with Alexander Kerzhakov being named the player of the year and Luciano Spalletti collecting the accolade for best coach.
Kerzhakov enjoyed a fruitful campaign in front of goal in 2010, scoring 13 goals in 28 Premier League appearances as Zenit won the title for the second time. The 28-year-old Russian international also regained his place in the national team, registering in crucial UEFA EURO 2012 qualifying victories against the Republic of Ireland and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.
"This award makes me incredibly happy, but I know that my parents feel even happier right now," said Kerzhakov, who rejoined the club in January from FC Dinamo Moskva. "I`m grateful they brought me up as they did. Everything I do is for them."
In addition to Kerzhakov and Spalletti, Zenit team-mates Danny and Alexander Anyukov were also honoured, picking up the best foreign player and most valuable player awards respectively. Unsurprisingly, Zenit were named team of the year for winning the domestic double and ending the UEFA Europa League group stage with a 100% record.
FC Spartak Moskva striker Welliton (19 goals) walked away with the top scorers` prize for the second successive season, while team-mate Sergei Parshivlyuk`s progress was recognised by his collecting the breakthrough of the year accolade. PFC CSKA Moskva`s Igor Akinfeev was named best goalkeeper.
