Aston Villa striker Rudy Gestede has been nominated for African Player of the Year.

Gestede, 27, represents west African nation, Benin, and is among ten other English-based players to make the 37-man shortlist.

They include last year's winner Yaya Toure, Andre Ayew, Christian Atsu, Dieu Mbokani. Mame Diouf, Max Gradel, Riyad Mahrez, Sadio Mane, Victor Wanyama, and Yannick Bolasie.

Boss Tim Sherwood splashed out £6million to land the giant hitman this summer and has been pleased with his contributions.