MATT Green admits the plaudits should go to strike partner Matt Rhead after the Mansfield Town frontman picked up the Our Game Player of the Year award at the 2013 National Game Awards.
The 26-year-old followed up the 30 goals he scored in 2011-12 with another 27 as the Stags won the Blue Square Bet Premier title – and promotion back to the Football League – by two points from Kidderminster Harriers.
And Green's personal trophy cabinet also continues to overflow as he was awarded the Our Game Player of the Year award as voted for by the readers of the Non-League newspaper at Fulham's Craven Cottage – which was brought in conjunction with Budweiser Club Futures.
But despite hogging the limelight with his goalscoring escapades, Green insists he and the Stags wouldn't have much to shout about if it wasn't for team-mate Rhead.
"It's an honour to win such a prestigious award voted for by readers of The Non-League Paper," said Green, who also bagged a goal against Liverpool in the FA Cup in a memorable campaign.
"I had a slow start to the season and was out of the side for a few weeks.
"I've got to thank one of my fellow forwards, Matt Rhead, because if he didn't pass to me to tap one in and end my goal drought against Luton last November, I might not have got back in the team, let alone scored so many goals.
"It's been a pleasure playing in such a quality team and the easy part has been finishing off the chances the other lads have created for me."
Green was not on hand to collect his award in the capital, as the striker was on holiday in Thailand with singer girlfriend Geri Sumner, niece of pop legend Sting.
But having gone on trial with Championship side Birmingham City before jetting off, Green admits he has a tough decision to make when he returns.
"I feel I've grown up as a player and a person in the last few months," he said. "Now I'm going to take some time out on holiday to think seriously about what lies ahead and leave my agent to see what offers are on the table.
"I've loved playing for Mansfield and the offer there to stay is wonderful. But if the chance arises to move up and prove myself, I've got to take it."
The Non-League Paper is the UK's number one selling football title available in all shops on Sundays. www.thenonleaguefootballpaper.com
