Speaking at Tuesday's pre-awards press conference, the 2008 Player of the Year winner said that he would not have been able to produce the caliber of performances that Asian football fans have become accustomed to seeing had it not been for the for the assistance of his colleagues.

"I am here because of my team-mates. There are 11 players on the pitch and it is because of them that I can be nominated," said the 29-year-old midfield maestro, who played an inspirational role in Uzbekistan reaching the semi-finals of the 2011 AFC Asian Cup, their best finish since first taking part in the 2000 edition.

"I won previously in 2008 and it is a dream to be able to get this award again. I have worked hard for three years and I am very happy to have another chance of winning it. It will be a great pleasure for me to win another award.

"This is an important event for the AFC and for the players so anyone that is to win an award must show respect for the ceremony."

Djeparov joined Saudi Arabian giants Al Shabab in July following his standout performances for the 2010 K-League double winners FC Seoul in this year's AFC Champions League.

And with the former Pakhtakor and Bunyodkor star making his mark in the continent, he hopes that by realizing his dream and once again being named AFC Player of the Year he will serve as an inspiration to aspiring Uzbek footballers.

"Football in Uzbekistan has got much more support than before. Uzbek football achieved a lot in 2011 and if I could win this award it will hopefully motivate the next generation of young Uzbek footballers.