Vote Asisat Oshoala for BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year | Why the Nigerian Striker Deserves to Win!

Asisat Oshoala deserves to win BBC women’s footballer of the year Award, but only your vote can ensure that. So quickly, don’t wait or procrastinate. Click and vote now!

For me it’s become a clarion call, not just to Nigerians, but Africa as one continental block.

The benefits of Oshoala winning the BBC Award will put Africa’s women football on world spotlight. Well, that could translate to more sponsorship and attract better developmental programs for women football in Africa. This is why you should vote now!

Liverpool striker is among the nominations for the BBC Women's Footballer of the Year after five shortlisted footballers were announced.

Veronica Boquete (Spain and FFC Frankfurt), Nadine Kessler (German and VFL Wolfsburg), Kim Little (Scotland and Seattle Reign FC) and Marta (Brazil and FC Rosengard) complete the shortlist.

Nigerian striker Oshoala, who joined Liverpool Ladies in January, said:

  "I worked hard last year but I am surprised to be nominated and I feel so 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.

'A lot of people tried to discourage me but I never let that bother me – I did what I want to do.'

The shortlist was selected by a panel of experts including administrators, journalists, coaches and former players. 

Voting will close on Monday 11th May at 10am and the winner of the BBC Women's Footballer of the Year 2015 will be revealed on the BBC World Service on 26th May 2015.

Mary Hockaday, Controller of BBC World Service English said: 'With anticipation building ahead of the Women's World Cup we're thrilled to announce the shortlist for the first BBC Women's Footballer of the Year award. 

'The five shortlisted players represent an incredible array of talent and show the growing strength of the women's game. The vote is now open to fans to choose their favorites player.'

Nigeria striker Oshoala is currently the African woman footballer of the year. She won the Most Valuable Player (MVP) at 2015 African women championship. She was the MVP and Highest goal scorer at FIFA U20 women’s world cup in Canada 2014. Oshoala has already scored 4 goals and 6 assists in 10 appearances for Liverpool ladies at English Super League.

Fans can vote online and using their mobile phone or handheld device, at bbc.com/womensfootball .

Voting is also available by SMS to +44 7786 20 20 04: Text 1 for Veronica Boquete, 2 for Nadine Kessler, 3 for Kim Little, 4 for Marta or (5 for Asisat Oshoala).