Former AC Milan and Italy Playmaker Gianni Rivera to Receive Uefa President's Award

The Italian legend will become the latest football great honoured with the UEFA President's Award when he collects the prize later this month for his services to the sport

Uefa has announced on its official website that former AC Milan and Italy star Gianni Rivera is to receive the Uefa President's Award for 2011 at a special ceremony to be held on Monday March 12 in Milan.
Rivera made over 500 appearances for the Rossoneri from 1960 until 1979, and made 60 international appearances for Italy.The 68-year-old won three Serie A titles and two European Cups at club level, as well as the 1968 European championship with Italy.
"Gianni Rivera is surely one of the great ambassadors for football at both club and country level, having worn the AC Milan jersey over 500 times and represented his country at four Fifa World Cups," Uefa president Michel Platini commented.
"He was also one of the greatest passers of all time who was known for his impeccable dribbling and distribution.
"In addition, Gianni Rivera was a true gentleman, both on and off the field of play, and he has remained so to this day. It gives me great pleasure to honor him with the Uefa President's Award for 2011."
Recent recipients of the award include Raymond Kopa (2010), Eusebio (2009), Sir Bobby Charlton (2008) and Alfredo Di Stefano (2007).