African Footballer of the Year shortlist announced

The Confederation of African Football has announced a 10-man shortlist for the continent's footballer of the year award, with the Premier League featuring heavily.

Three Ivory Coast internationals make the cut including Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure and Arsenal forward Gervinho.

2009 winner Didier Drogba is also nominated after his performances helped Chelsea secure the Champions League title last season.

Drogba's former Blues teammate John Obi Mikel is the only Nigerian named on the shortlist.

Former Gunners midfielder Alex Song's displays have been recognised with a nomination along with Newcastle United striker Demba Ba.

The 10-man list will be whittled down to three names ahead of an awards ceremony in Ghana to announce the winner on Thursday, December 20.

Shortlist for the 2012 African Footballer of the Year award:

Alex Song, Andre Ayew, Christopher Katongo, Demba Ba, Didier Drogba, Gervinho, John Obi Mikel, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Yaya Toure, Younes Belhanda.