Everton forward becoming a regular fixture after third straight nomination for continental award

 

As things stand, Yannick Bolasie has adapted well to Ronald Koeman’s tactics following his £25m transfer from Crystal Palace midway through August.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo international has, since the move, picked up three assists in the league in seven appearances, including one against Manchester City at the weekend to set up Romelu Lukaku.

Also an important part of his country’s international setup, the Everton forward has become something of a regular nomination for the African Ballon d’Or, or African Player of the Year as it’s officially called, even during his Crystal Palace days.

The 27-year-old has been on the list of nominees since 2014, and this year has been no different as the Confederation of African Football revealed who could win the prize on Saturday.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang won the trophy in 2015, much to Yaya Touré’s displeasure, but with the Manchester City midfielder not even nominated, things might be a bit more pleasant this year.

Whether Bolasie has a chance at the award remains to be seen, but considering last year’s winner’s start to the season and the 2016 years of both Sadio Mané and Mahrez, it seems like a long shot.