 Okocha has won the BBC award for the last two years |
If the final vote goes his way, Mohamed Barakat could this year become the first Egyptian to win the BBC African Footballer of the Year award. The Ahly midfield dynamo is one of five players shortlisted for the award decided exclusively by the fans.
Barakat's form was central to Ahly's Champions League success and their remarkable unbeaten streak.
The BBC award recognises the most outstanding African - playing at home or abroad - during the calendar year.
Barakat will have his work cut out in the second round of voting which is now underway and closes on 31 December.
The five contenders are:
Mohamed Barakat (Egypt & Ahly)
Samuel Eto'o (Cameroon & Barcelona)
Michael Essien (Ghana & Chelsea)
Jay-Jay Okocha (Nigeria & Bolton)
Obafemi Martins (Nigeria & Inter Milan)
Eto'o has been in terrific form for Spanish champions Barcelona and his partnership with Brazilian magician Ronaldinho is one of the most feared in Europe.
Essien has taken to the English Premiership like a duck to water following his multi-million-dollar move to Chelsea.
Martins has nailed down a regular first team place Italian giants, Inter Milan, but Okocha is a surprise nomination given that he is struggling at Premiership side Bolton.
So who will be this year's winner now rests solely in the hands of African football fans around the world.
Therefore, let your voices be heard and help us give someone the recognition they deserve!
Which player has done enough to win your vote?
This vote is now over, having ended on 31 December 2005.
The 2005 BBC African Footballer of the Year will be announced at a special ceremony during the Nations Cup finals in Egypt.
MMIX
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 