Jordan Ayew has expressed his joy following his inclusion in a 30-man shortlist for the 2019 African Player of the Year by the  Confederation of African Football.

The forward is in contention for the award alongside compatriot and Atlético Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey.

Ayew has enjoyed a year which saw him score three goals from four games at the Africa Cup of Nations and six goals in 2019 for Crystal Palace.

The last Ghanaian to win it was Abedi Pele – Ayew’s father. His brother, Andre, has finished in third place on two occasions: 2011 and 2015.

“I’m really, really honoured. I’m proud. It shows the hard work has paid off because last year, last season, wasn’t a good year at all,” Ayew told Palace TV.

“I had a good AFCON [Africa Cup of Nations], continued with Crystal Palace and things are going positively.

“Hopefully it stays that way. I’m happy for myself, for my family and I’m happy for the people who always believed in me.

“It’s just the shortlist but it’s a sign I’m improving. I need to keep on working hard to keep on moving forward.”

The list will be pruned down to three before the awards ceremony on Tuesday, 7 January 2020 at the Citadel Azure, Hurgada, Egypt.