Adelaide United's Marcos Flores admits it was a beautiful surprise to be crowned the 2010/11 Johnny Warren Medalist as the A-League's best player. Flores, who dazzled not only Reds fans but audiences around the country with his sublime skill, passion and talent of the 'the beautiful game', was clearly humbled by the accolade and says it is an achievement that the whole of Adelaide United as a club could and should be proud of.
"Honestly it was a surprise. I went to Sydney to enjoy the experience with my club and my team mates, and when they said my name I was so surprised, but it was a beautiful surprise," Flores said after touching down back in Adelaide.
"It's not just about one name and one player, it's about the club, it's about all of my team mates, all the people working in the club, and I don't want to forget anyone."
The Johnny Warren Medal is decided by each rostered player from all 11 Hyundai A-League clubs casting 3-2-1 votes at the conclusion of Weeks 10, 19 and 27 during the season, with players not permitted to vote for their team mates.
Flores finished ahead of Brisbane's German import Thomas Broich to win the award, Adelaide United's affectionate and passionate Argentinean playmaker just delighted that he has been able to bring some enjoyment to Reds fans since he first arrived in Australia at the beginning of 2010.
"I want with my football, with the skills, to try and put a smile on the face of the supporters, this is my objective and the objective I think we have to take - to enjoy football," Flores said.
While Flores is contracted to the Reds for next season, this recognition and individual honour is certain to only heighten the interest of overseas clubs in the 25 year old. However, Flores is not getting involved in if or when offers may come for his services, and says he is currently just grateful for the opportunities Adelaide United have given him on the Asian and Hyundai A-League stage.
"Every player in this world wants to improve. Every player in this world has an ambition. Of course I would like to listen but I have to respect this club (Adelaide United), this club gave me a big chance to show my football in Australia," Flores said.
"Adelaide United will call me and say 'Marcos, this is the situation', but I'm here and at this moment I want to try and live in today and not think about the future, because I will make a mistake if I only think of the future."
Impressively, the Reds had five players including Flores finish in the top 10 of the Johnny Warren Medal at the end of voting. In addition to Flores' win, young gun Mathew Leckie came in 4th, Golden Boot Winner Sergio van Dijk 6th, Cassio 8th and goalkeeper Eugene Galekovic 9th.
Previous winners of the medal include Carlos Hernandez, Shane Smeltz, Joel Griffiths, Nick Carle and Bobby Despotovski.
