Hibernians youngster Joseph Mbong scooped the award for the Best Under 17 Player in Malta for last season at a gala ceremony held on Friday in the Island Nation.

Last summer, the attacker’s dad passed away at the age of 37, and the Malta youth - teamer has dedicated his prize to his late father, who was a footballer before he left this sinful world.

“I am dedicating this award to my late dad. Of course, if it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t have played football. I’d also like to thank all the people who helped and pushed me to overcome boundaries.

“I think I got this award because I helped my team to come second in the league. I also made a big contribution in the European Championship and scored a lot of goals the previous season,” says Joseph Mbong to allnigeriasoccer.com.

17 - year - old Joseph Mbong has been promoted to the Malta Under 19s on the back of his outstanding performances for the Under 17 squad.

His father, Essien Mbong, had spells with Julius Berger, Hibernians, Marsa and Tarxien Rainbows.